Young people dealing with depression need greater support from those around them, according to Kent County Council.

Workers from the council’s youth service have spoken out after research revealed one in 10 young people believe their life is meaningless and not worth living.

The report by the Prince's Trust says many 16- to 25-year-olds do not have a purpose in life.

Those who are not in education, work or training are the most likely to be depressed.

Kent County Council Assistant Head of Youth Service John Turner said: “I think it is a very sad indictment of the world young people inhabit.

“It does not come as a great surprise to me especially with the economic downturn and worries about the environment. These global issues affect young people too.

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“Young people who feel they don’t have opportunities and don’t feel appreciated will look for ways of getting credit from their peers. That could be through social or anti-social ways.

He added: “There are opportunities out there for young people. The youth service is part of that and offers a range of opportunities to build that self confidence and self esteem in young people.

“It is important that we as a society listen to young people and take note of what they are saying. We have to do things to help redress the issues they are raising.”