Worried about a young person’s mental health?

Young people told us that how adults approach them to discuss mental health is just as important as what they say. They explained what they needed to feel safe and comfortable enough to talk openly and honestly so that you can guide them to support.

Sometimes it’s hard to know if a young person is struggling with their mental health.

“You don’t need all the answers, to ask if we’re ok”

Finding the words to start talking to someone else about how they’re feeling can be difficult. If someone has shared how they are feeling, it might be the first time they have spoken to someone about their mental health and they may struggle to put their thoughts into words.

“Everyone can act differently when they’re going through a tough time”

If you have tried to talk to a young person but they do not feel ready to talk, try not to pressure them. They will open up to you, or someone else they trust, when they’re ready. Be clear with them that you care about their wellbeing and that the option to talk to you is still available.

What to do if you believe a young person needs support

LISTEN – Offer to talk to them somewhere more appropriate, if there is a risk of being interrupted or overheard by others.

Listening can make a huge difference to how someone feels. If they’re finding it difficult to talk, let them know you’re there when they’re ready. They may prefer to write down how they are feeling.

Let them share without interrupting or judging them.

Show you are listening by nodding or repeating what they say to show you have understood.

REASSURE – A young person struggling with their mental health can feel isolated and alone. By letting them know how they feel is valid, you are letting them know that they are not alone. Using kind and reassuring language like ‘its okay to feel like that’ or, ‘what you’re going through sounds really tough’.

VALIDATE – Often, when a young person has opened up about how they are feeling, they might immediately feel worried that they’ve said the wrong thing or shared too much.  Reassure them that they have done the right thing by speaking about it. You could say, ‘I’m really glad you told me this’, or ‘it might have felt difficult but it’s good that you spoke to me about it’.

ACT– encourage them to access support, either by talking to a parent, doctor or clinician. Remember, this can seem overwhelming for a young person. If possible, consider offering to go with them to talk to them. Understanding how they have managed similar situations can help you support them too. They may already have things that help them like listening to music, quiet time or going for a walk.

 

Want posters to display in your setting?

Young people designed posters and asked for them to be displayed in adult only spaces like staff rooms, offices and staff toilets.

Staff Poster – How to talk to young people about their mental health

 

You may also be interested in viewing the Mental Health Friends handbook, developed by young people for young people. You can download copies of the handbook by clicking the link above which will take you to MoodSpark.

Further guidance on having a conversation

If you need further guidance on how to have a conversation you may wish to consider using the Resilience Conversation tool. It enables you to explore with young people the areas in their life that promote resilience and how to build on this.

Looking after your own wellbeing

Supporting a young person who’s going through a difficult time can be hard and you might not notice how much it affects you. It’s okay to feel upset, shocked, or worried. It is important to make sure you look after yourself, so that you stay well and you’re still able to help them.

• Try not to take on too much – supporting someone on your own can be a big responsibility. If it’s appropriate you may want to encourage them to reach out to other people they trust too, like their family or other adults they are close to.
• Set boundaries – like letting them know what support they can expect from you.
• Think about how it affects you – if supporting a young person feels overwhelming, or upsetting, discuss any concerns with your designated safeguarding lead.

Take a look at our Staff Wellbeing page for more information and support.