When discussing mental health support for young people, it is important to remember that this is just as important for children as it is for adults, and yet it is often overlooked. In the UK, one in five children and young people experience a mental health problem at some point in their lives. This can range from mild to severe, and can have a significant impact on their ability to learn, socialize, and develop.
CAHMS
There are a number of different services available to children and young people with mental health problems. The NHS provides Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), which are specialist services that assess and treat children and young people with mental health problems. CAMHS teams are made up of a range of professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, social workers, and therapists. Many of those with first hand experience will talk about the very long wait to be seen. There are other avenues of support whilst you are waiting for your young person to have an appointment.
- Community groups: There are a number of community groups that provide support and activities for children and young people with mental health problems. These groups can provide a safe space for children and young people to talk about their experiences, and to make friends with other people who understand what they are going through.
- Schools: Schools can play a vital role in supporting children and young people with mental health problems. Schools can provide early intervention for children who are struggling, and can also offer support to children and young people who are already receiving treatment.
- Charities: There are a number of charities that provide support to children and young people with mental health problems. These charities offer a range of services, including counselling, support groups, and information and advice.
The Importance of Community Groups
Community groups can play a vital role in supporting children and young people with mental health problems. There are not many of them around, but if you have one in your area they can be an invaluable source of help. For example and organisation in West Yorkshire called It’s Worth Talking About have added a group for teenagers into it’s weekly adult support groups for men and women. Groups like this can provide a safe space for children and young people to talk about their experiences, and to make friends with other people who understand what they are going through.
Online Help
Treacle.me is a web site and App which for the first time provides a simple to use directory which helps you to find local and national support groups, without any annoying ads. It has sections such and finance and loneliness, but in the My Mind section it also has lots of organisations listed who help with providing support for young people with mental health issues.
The NHS has some really good support pages which are worth checking out here if you are looking for ways to support a Young Persons mental health.
If you are concerned about the mental health of a child or young person, there are a number of things you can do. You can:
- Talk to the child or young person about how they are feeling.
- Encourage them to talk to a trusted adult, such as a parent, teacher, or friend.
- Look for signs of mental health problems, such as changes in mood, behavior, or sleep patterns.
- Seek professional help if you are concerned about the child or young person’s mental health.
- Look on Treacle.me under My Mind then Young People, to find all the organisations offering help and support.
It is important to remember that you are not alone. There are a number of services available to help children and young people with mental health problems. With the right support, children and young people can overcome their mental health problems and go on to live happy and fulfilling lives.
