Most children returned to school last week, new classes, new friends and new opportunities can feel exciting. Once the initial excitement wears off and the reality of a new school year is setting in, children and young people might find themselves experiencing feelings of overwhelm, worry and nervousness.
Mia and Kaitlin from our Children and Young People Mental Health Service have created this helpful video below to share with children and families to help understand and shrink those worries.
Within the video your young person can listen to guidance on what to do if they feel uncertain about new places and routines and how to ask questions. How to think of school as an adventure and remember to be brave and the effective use of grounding techniques. Parents and carers will also find advice on how to listen and validate children’s feelings and learn how to model confidence at home.
Whether it’s the pressure of schoolwork, social worries or just adjusting to a new routine, it’s important to remind children mental health matters and if they are struggling to ask for help. This may be by talking to a parent, teacher or GP, reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Here are some useful resources that can also help:
- Orcha App – Find trusted, clinically reviewed health and wellbeing apps in one place. Visit Orcha
- Lancashire Minds – Local support and activities to boost mental health and wellbeing. Visit Lancashire Minds
- Virtual Wellbeing Coach – One-to-one online support for children and young people. Learn more
- Parenting Workshops – Free sessions to help parents support children’s mental health. Join here
- Aiming Higher – Support and activities for disabled children, young people, and their families. Visit Aiming Higher
- ADHD North West – Information, advice, and guidance for families living with ADHD. Find support
- Parent Support – LCC Early Help – Practical support for families to manage challenges early. Explore Early Help
