A recent survey by the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups has revealed a significant rise in anxiety levels among secondary students as the new academic year gets under way.

The study, which polled 5,551 students, found that over one in four are experiencing mild to severe anxiety. The average anxiety score has climbed to 25.4, the highest level recorded in the past five years.

According to federation supervisor Andy Chan, academic pressures remained the primary source of stress for students for the fifth consecutive year.

Their key concerns include a potential decline in grades, a lack of motivation and heavy workloads.

"Students switching from a summer chill vibe to a strict school routine also sparked their attention, panic or fatigue, especially in high grades," he said.

"But since the anxiety level is still under 29 [threshold], it's not at a crisis level, but I think we have to be concerned about the rising anxiety symptoms among overall students."

Compounding the issue is students' reluctance to seek help, with Chan saying the survey found approximately 60 percent of respondents rarely or never ask for assistance.

"They are afraid of being judged or don't want to seem weak. Some, like in our case study, feel distant from peers and teachers, or they hesitate to miss classes for counselling," he said.

"They may not open up to ask for help, especially in some competitive school settings."

The study also showed that more than 40 percent of students reported high stress levels, which ranged between seven and 10 on a 10-point scale.

The average stress index stood at 5.9, slightly lower than last year's 6.1.

Chan encourages schools to conduct regular mental health checks and provide training for both staff and students to identify signs of distress.

He also advises parents to engage in supportive activities with their children to help them relax and feel understood.