Lisa Simpson

In case you need someone to talk to over the festive period.

How to respond when a young person opens up to you about their mental health 1/ Listen Try to let them share without interrupting. Repeating back what they’ve told you can help both of you be clear about what they’ve said and how they are feeling. If they are finding it overwhelming, you can suggest they write it down. That way, they can take their time to think about what they are trying to say, without worrying about how it might come across in conversation, or worrying about getting emotional in front of you. 2/ Reassure Often, when someone has opened up about how they are feeling, they might immediately feel worried that you won’t take their feelings seriously, or that they have said the wrong thing. Reassure them that they have done the right thing. 3/ Validate No matter what a young person is struggling with, their experiences are valid and it can be helpful to remind your young person of this. You could say ‘it’s really understandable that you’re feeling…’ to let them know that their feelings are okay. 4/ Act If you feel they need further support, there are a number of services you can signpost them to – visit our website for more information. However, if you feel they are at immediate risk of harm, or it is not safe, call 999 or take them to A&E. Lastly, remember it’s not all on you. It’s a great privilege for a young person to reach out to you for help – but it can feel daunting and worrying. But don’t worry if you don’t have all the answers – simply offering to be by their side can be huge help.

If your child is anxious about going back to school, here are some things you can do to support them and encourage them to talk about how they are feeling. youngminds.org.uk/parent/blo…

You can be driven, motivated, passionate and have depression. You can be bubbly, vibrant and extroverted and have anxiety. The more we understand that mental health is separate from character, the less stigma there will be. #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek

We want as many young people as possible to know that we are here for them this #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek. On our website we have advice, real stories from young people, and information on ways to get help. Please help us spread the word. youngminds.org.uk/young-pers…

When someone you know is having a panic attack, it can be difficult to know what to do. Here are some things that can really help. ⬇ 1/ Stay with them If you can, stay with the person during their panic attack. Just by you being there, you can help them to calm down and remind them that help is available. If you're finding it overwhelming, that is okay - you can find another friend, family member or teacher they trust to support your friend and you. 2/ Talk to them and encourage them Chat to them about how they are feeling or anything they like - favourite Netflix shows, or their hobbies. This can distract them from their anxious thoughts, helping them to feel calm and to slow down their breathing. They might find it difficult to talk and might want to focus on their breath - that’s okay and it’s important to respect their boundaries and how they are feeling. 3/ Check in with them afterwards Even though your friend may no longer be panicking, they can still feel anxious or on edge afterwards. Check in with them to see how they are feeling. This can help to remind them that they are not alone and you are there for them.