If your child is anxious or worried about anything there are things you can do to help. If they’re struggling with their mental health, the following advice can help you support them and keep them safe.
There’s a lot of uncertainty in the world and lots of things that children don’t fully understand. There won’t always be answers to the questions your children are asking. But support is available to help you have these conversations in a safe and open way.
Children’s Mental Health Week
Children’s Mental Health Week is taking place on 5-11th February 2024. This year’s theme is “My Voice Matters”!
Children need to know that their voice matters and that they will be listened to when they need to talk. Children need to be aware of who they can talk to, both at home and at school, so that they feel safe and comfortable to do so.
As parents and carers, you play an important role in your child’s mental health. Visit Children’s Mental Health Week for more information.
You may also find these resources useful:
Stress Busters
Talking to your child about mental health
cmhw-24-top-tips-for-families.pdf (childrensmentalhealthweek.org.uk)
NSPCC – Depression, Anxiety and Mental Health – Information and guidance on how to help a child with anxiety or depression about the coronavirus.
Young Minds – advice for parents/carers about supporting children with a range of mental health problems.
Mind – The mental health charity have information and guidance about coronavirus and your wellbeing.
Brain Pop – Video and information about coronavirus for children.
Advice about the Coronavirus– A simple, easy-read visual resource explaining coronavirus.
Coronavirus Picture Story – A simple story to help children manage anxiety about coronavirus.
Starting a Conversation with a Young Child – Talking to your child about how they’re feeling can be hard. By taking 20 minutes with them to do an activity you’ll both enjoy, you’ll create a relaxed space to start that conversation. Here are lots of fun activity ideas, conversation starters and advice to make talking easier and help you and your child #Take20.
Family Lives – Find advice on all aspects of family life from bonding with your new baby, dealing with tantrums, positive discipline, bullying, communicating with teens and divorce and separation.