Supporting a Child or Young Person with Mental Health Needs
If you’re concerned about the mental health of a child or young person, it can be difficult to know what to say, what to do or where to turn for help. You may also need support yourself while trying to help them.
You and your child are not alone. There are services and organisations that can provide information, guidance and professional support.
Understanding How a Child or Young Person May Be Feeling
Learning more about children’s and young people’s mental health can help you recognise changes in their behaviour and understand how best to support them.
You can explore the NHS guidance on mental health advice for parents and carers or learn more about different mental health conditions.
Helpful Resources for Parents and Carers
YoungMinds provides information and practical guidance for parents, including:
These resources can help parents and carers understand what a young person may be experiencing and provide advice on starting conversations about mental health.
You can also find additional information through The Charlie Waller Trust’s resources for parents and carers.
How to Talk to Your Child About Mental Health
Creating a safe environment where a child feels comfortable talking can make a difference.
Try to:
- Listen without immediately judging or criticising.
- Give them time to explain how they feel.
- Ask open and supportive questions.
- Let them know that it’s okay to ask for help.
- Avoid dismissing their concerns or telling them to simply “cheer up.”
- Reassure them that they do not have to deal with everything alone.
You don’t need to have all the answers. Sometimes, simply listening and helping them access appropriate support can be an important first step.
When Should You Seek Professional Help?
It can be difficult to know when professional support is necessary.
Consider seeking help if your child or young person:
- Has been feeling persistently low, anxious or distressed.
- Shows significant changes in behaviour or mood.
- Is struggling at school, college or in everyday activities.
- Appears increasingly withdrawn or isolated.
- Has difficulties that are affecting their relationships or daily life.
- Causes you serious concern because of changes in how they are feeling or behaving.
If you’re worried, you don’t need to wait until the situation becomes severe before asking for advice.
Where Can You Get Support?
A good first step may be to speak with someone who works with your child or young person, such as:
- A teacher or trusted member of school staff
- A school nurse
- A school’s mental health lead
- A Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO)
- A GP
- A health visitor, for children aged up to 5
These professionals can help you understand what support may be available locally and, where appropriate, refer or direct you to children and young people’s mental health services.
Getting Urgent Mental Health Support
If you believe your child needs help urgently, don’t wait for a routine appointment.
The NHS provides guidance on where to get urgent help for mental health.
If there is an immediate danger to the child or anyone else, seek emergency help straight away.
Supporting Yourself as a Parent or Carer
Supporting a child who is struggling with their mental health can be emotionally demanding. Remember that your wellbeing matters too.
Talk to someone you trust, use reputable parent-support resources and ask healthcare professionals about support available to you.
You don’t have to know exactly what to do before reaching out. Asking for help early can be an important step towards getting the right support for both you and the young person.
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