We all have emotions and feelings but when you’re a child or young person it can sometimes be difficult to manage these emotions.
Talking about feelings can be tough but it is good to talk to someone if you are struggling. There are lots of things you can do to help your mental health and lots of places where you can get support.
The council’s Mental health support for children, young people and families page has useful information about where to get support and also includes a handy guide.
Useful websites and contacts
YoungMinds
YoungMinds has a really useful section on their website called “My feelings” which has lots of advice if you’re feeling different from usual or you’ve noticed a change in your behaviour. You can find out about some common feelings and mental health symptoms such as:
- alone and misunderstood
- anger
- down and unable to cope
- eating problems
- grief and loss
- loneliness
- out of control
- panic attacks
- self harm
- sleep problems
- feeling stuck
- suicidal feelings
It gives you advice on how to cope and more importantly, where to go to get help.
Kooth
Kooth provides free, safe, anonymous support that you can access 24/7, 365 days of the year. It provides access to chat sessions with counsellors and qualified emotional wellbeing practitioners. It also includes articles, tips, discussion boards and access to a daily journal to help you track your feelings.
Shout
Shout can support you with your mental health. They are a free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging support service for anyone who is struggling to cope. Text ‘shout’ to 85258.
Childline
Childline provides a telephone support line with access to one-to-one counsellor chat and an online resource providing information, advice and guidance including tips and techniques to help make you feel more in control. Call free on 0800 1111.
NHS
The NHS website has a section about Mental health for children, teenagers and young adults which tells you how and where to get advice and support.
Student Space
Student Space is run by Student Minds, the UK’s student mental health charity. If you’re aged between 18-21 years they can support you with challenges you might be facing with your mental wellbeing.