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Some children and young people have enjoyed being off school, while others will have really struggled – with the coronavirus outbreak keeping them at home and away from friends. Others may be coming to terms with family problems, loss or changes to their living situation.
With nationwide and local restrictions being regularly reviewed, they may also have to deal with self-isolating because of an outbreak in school or another period of school closure, or have worries about getting or passing on the virus. It's still uncertain what further changes we all may face.
Feelings like these will gradually ease for most, but there are always steps you can take to support them emotionally and help them cope with problems they face.
There's support available if you feel you or they need it.
Signs something is wrong
Signs something is wrong
Around 1 in 8 children and young people experience behavioural or emotional problems growing up. For some, these will resolve with time, while others will need professional support.
It can be difficult to know if there is something upsetting a child or young person, but there are ways to spot when something's wrong. Look out for:
significant changes in behaviour
ongoing difficulty sleeping
withdrawing from social situations
not wanting to do things they usually like
self-harm or neglecting themselves
Remember, everyone feels low, angry or anxious at times. But when these changes last for a long time or are significantly affecting them, it might be time to get professional help.
You know your child better than anyone so, if you're worried, first think if there has been a significant, lasting change in their behaviour.
This could be at home, school or college; with others or on their own; or in relation to specific events or changes in their life.
If you're concerned or unsure, there is lots of support out there. We have put together some fantastic links to support children's mental health: below
https://www.annafreud.org/mental-health-professionals/our-help-for-children-and-families/
https://www.childline.org.uk/toolbox/calm-zone
https://www.gingerbread.org.uk/
https://www.mentallyhealthyschools.org.uk/
https://www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters/
https://www.place2be.org.uk/our-services/parents-and-carers/
www.mind.org.uk/information-support/tips-for-everyday-living/wellbeing/wellbeing
Sussex Mental Health Line – support and information 0300 5000 101
Sussex Health & Care, NHS - Information for parents - Looking after your child's mental health
www.youngminds.org.uk - the UK’s leading charity fighting for children and young people’s mental health. They have a parent’s helpline via email, webchat or email.
www.westsussex.gov.uk/education-children-and-families/your-space/places-to-go/finditout-centres/ - Find it Out Centre for those aged 11-25 living in Worthing and Adur. They offer support, information, advice and guidance for a wide range of wellbeing issues.
Youth Emotional Support (YES) service - West Sussex County Council - for children aged 11 – 18
https://www.supportline.org.uk/problems/relationships-and-family/
https://www.familylives.org.uk/advice/your-family/relationship-advice/
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