Rising numbers of children are suffering from mental health problems because they are forced to grow up too quickly, a report will warn this week.

Binge-drinking, increased availability of drugs, family breakdown and pressure to look fashionable and attractive are contributing to the trend.

The latest report from The Children's Society inquiry into the state of childhood is expected to reveal that more than a million children have disorders ranging from depression, anxiety and anorexia to violent delinquency.

The report will call for action to prevent mental health problems wrecking the prospects of a generation of youngsters.

It will also urge parents to do more to steer children away from anti-social behaviour and a life of crime and unemployment.

They are expected to be encouraged to praise their children more frequently instead of repeatedly criticising them, while also establishing clear boundaries.

The fifth in a series of six themed reports, the study to be published on Thursday will focus on children's health, examining their behaviour and feelings of self-worth.

The inquiry team is headed by Stephen Scott, professor of child health and behaviour at the Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London.

It is expected to refer to figures released by the Institute last year, which showed that the number of teenagers with emotional and behavioural problems doubled between 1974 and 1999, the latest statistical group available.

The problems of social networking sites such as Bebo and MySpace, which may increase pressure on children to be "cool" or "skinny" are also likely to be cited.

Last night Michele Elliott, of child protection charity Kidscape, said the report reflected the real pressures on children, for which she believes parents are "largely responsible".

Full article here.