For many young people, school is a time of growth, learning, and social development—but it can also be a source of stress and anxiety. Factors like increasing academic pressures, social challenges, and the influence of technology contribute to children and young people’s mental health struggles.
While some stress is normal, how do we recognise when it is becoming a serious concern? In today’s post, we would learn to spot the warning signs and provide the right support.
Everyday Stress vs. Mental Health Concerns
A certain level of stress can help young people build resilience, but when stress becomes overwhelming or persistent, it can take a serious toll on mental health. See the image below to learn more.
How to Support a Young Person Struggling with Mental Health
Supporting a child or young person’s mental well-being is not just about offering advice—it is about listening, validating their feelings, and ensuring they have access to the right resources.
- Encourage Open Conversations: Young people need to feel safe talking about their emotions without fear of judgement. Instead of asking “What’s wrong with you?” try “I’ve noticed you haven’t seemed yourself lately—do you want to talk about it?”
- Reduce the Pressure: Many students feel immense pressure to perform academically or fit in socially. Reinforce that their worth is not tied to grades or popularity, and encourage balance between schoolwork, relaxation, and hobbies.
- Model Healthy Coping Strategies: Adults, parents, or carers play an important role in modelling self-care. Show young people how to manage stress in healthy ways—whether that is through mindfulness, exercise, time management, or simply taking a break when needed.
- Monitor Social Media Impact: Social media can be both a lifeline and a stressor. Teach children to take digital breaks, promote online safety, and have regular discussions about how social media affects self-esteem and mental well-being.
- Know When to Seek Professional Help: If a young person’s mental health is impacting their daily life, it is time to seek professional support. Schools, GPs, and mental health charities can provide valuable assistance. Never ignore signs of distress, and always take talk of self-harm or suicidal thoughts seriously.
Mental health is everyone’s responsibility. Schools, families, and communities must work together to create environments where young people feel supported, valued, and heard.
If you are concerned about a young person’s mental health, do not wait—reach out, listen, and connect them with the support they need. You could be the person who helps them take the first step towards healing.
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