You can speak to any trusted member of staff at any time. In particular, look out for staff who are wearing their Mental Health First Aid badge or lanyard. You can also speak to your Pupil Support teacher if you are worried about your mental health. They will be able to point you in the right direction for further support, or help you work through challenging times.
DHS has dedicated School Counselors. You can request to speak with Lisa or Debbie, or your Pupil Support teacher can help to arrange this.
The Counselling room is a calm, comfortable and private space where young people can meet with Lisa or Debbie. It's located on the ground floor, opposite the school office.
Lisa loves working with young people in schools, providing a safe space for their voices to be heard, and supporting them to find solutions to problems that they may be facing. Lisa is employed by Wellbeing Scotland, and she has worked with them for 5 years - first as a trainee and then a qualified counsellor. In addition to her role as a school counsellor, she also works with the NHS, offering crisis support to individuals who are actively suicidal.
Debbie is a qualified CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) counsellor who is passionate about helping people to manage their mental health. Debbie has been passionate about working with young people's mental health for some time, but is new to working in schools, which she finds challenging and exciting. Debbie’s services are provided through Wellbeing Scotland.
It may be the case that you are not ready to talk to someone at school. That's OK! If you'd rather access support anonymously, you can use the links shown.
Young Minds
Tips on what to expect from counselling
Advice about Mental Health
Articles about challenges for young people
Childline & Childline Exam Stress
Access to counselling
Online chat function
Advice about exam stress
Kooth (10 - 18 in Stirling)
Online Mental Health Community
Discussion boards
Online chat function