This Children’s Mental Health Week we want all children and young people, whoever they are, and wherever they are in the world, to be able to say – and believe – “My Voice Matters”.
It can be hard to know if a young person is struggling with their mental health or wellbeing. We all act in different ways when we’re going through a tough time.
You might notice some of the following signs, you might see something different, or you might not notice anything at all. These signs could also be linked to a young person’s physical health, or something else entirely.
Some of the ways they might act differently include:
- Seeming distant, or not themselves
- Not meeting up with friends or partners
- Spending more time alone than usual
- Not chatting, smiling or laughing as much
- Seeming less confident
- Talking about feelings that worry you
- Losing interest in or not doing activities they normally love
- Crying, shouting or feeling angry
- Being restless
- Smoking, drinking, or using drugs when they didn’t before
- Using social media in a different way, or more or less than before
Here are some tips to help the children and young people in your care get the help they need and deserve:
- Create an environment where children feel comfortable discussing their feelings and emotions. Encourage open communication without judgment or criticism.
- Identify and minimise sources of stress in your child’s life. This could include reducing academic pressures, managing extracurricular activities, and creating a peaceful home environment.
- Work with your child to develop healthy coping strategies, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, journaling, or engaging in creative activities.
- Find a quiet, comfortable, and private setting where you can have an open conversation without interruptions.
- Approach the conversation without blame or judgment. Use empathetic language and focus on their feelings and experiences rather than trying to find fault.
- If your child is open to it, discuss potential solutions or coping strategies. This could involve seeking professional help, engaging in self-care activities, or making lifestyle adjustments.
- If your child is open to it, discuss potential solutions or coping strategies. This could involve seeking professional help, engaging in self-care activities, or making lifestyle adjustments.
