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Education can be challenging for many reasons. There are a number of factors that can put extra pressure on a young person – upcoming exam worries, bullying, bereavement, or being away from loved ones whilst studying away from home. Any combination of these can make term time a stressful experience.
This half term (18-24 February) MHFA England is encouraging everyone to join our #HalfTermHealthyMinds campaign and use this time to reach out and have a supportive conversation with a young person about their mental health.
Research suggests that over 75% of mental health issues are established by age 24, and 50% by age 14. With one in eight children experiencing mental ill health, we want everyone to consider starting a conversation with a young person, encouraging them to think about self-care, and giving them a chance to open up about their wellbeing.
Having supportive adults around at a young age can have a hugely positive impact on social, emotional and academic development, empowering young people to excel. Mentally healthy young people are much more likely to be productive, develop and sustain worthwhile personal relationships, and thrive in learning and play.
Half term is an ideal time to have a wellbeing conversation with a young person – so let’s get talking! Throughout the week MHFA England will be sharing guidance and resources to help you get the conversation started.
Make sure to keep an eye on our social media channels (@MHFAEngland) and get involved using the hashtag #HalfTermHealthyMinds.
"Siobhan Collingwood is the Head Teacher at Morecambe Bay Community Primary School and sits on the transformation panel for Lancashire and Morecambe schools. Siobhan has helped transform the region by instigating Youth Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training across the area in both secondary and primary schools. Here she explains why she believes the training..."
You can read more about Youth MHFA England training at: mhfaengland.org/individuals/youth