As parents and carers we play an important role in teaching children and young people how to understand and manage their feelings as they grow up.

I’m worried about my child or young person

If their life is in immediate danger, call 999. If not, follow our advice for getting urgent help.

What can I do at home?

• Find time to talk, just the two of you – ‘Check in’ with them while you’re doing things together, so they get used to talking about their feelings.
• Play together – Play helps them to be curious, learn new things, solve problems and express feelings without words.
• Be a role model – Show how you cope with difficult feelings and look after yourself.

Where can I get more information?

Child mental health and wellbeing:

• NHS
• Young Minds
• MindEd
• Place2Be’s blog

Big changes:

• Bereavement and grief (Child Bereavement UK) or (Winston's Wish)
• Divorce and separation (Young Minds)
• Getting ready to start school (Place2Be)
• Adolescence and growing up (The Mix)
• Exam stress (Place2Be)

Conditions and challenges:

• Eating disorders (Beat)
• Addiction and drugs (FRANK)
• Abuse (NSPCC)

Difference and diversity:

• Special needs and disabilities (Scope)
• Autism (National Autistic Society)
• LGBTQ+ (Strong Family Alliance)
• Gender diversity and transgender (Mermaids)
• Race and ethnicity (BAATN)

Please note, this is not an exhaustive list and we are unable to signpost to every organisation. Please refer to the NHS or BBC Action Line for a more comprehensive directory.

Does my child or young person need mental health support?

It’s normal to feel angry, sad, worried or stressed sometimes.

However, if they’re struggling to cope with those feelings, they might need support.

Look out for:

• Sudden changes in behaviour
• Negative thoughts and low self-esteem
• Arguing and fighting
• Sleep problems
• Avoiding school or staying with you all the time
• Aches and pains

Remember – everyone is different and these signs might not have anything to do with a mental health problem.

Children and young people can be affected by big changes like:

• Death or illness in the family
• Parents separating
• Moving school or moving house
• Tests and exams
• Adolescence and puberty
• Relationship and friendship problems

Try talking to them first. If you’re worried, follow our advice for getting help