This week is Children’s Mental Health Week, and HeadStart Hull is using the week to highlight the resources and support available to children and young people in Hull.
Gail Teasdale, HeadStart Hull programme manager said: “The pandemic has had a huge impact on all of us. Providing the right help and information to young people in need has never been more important.
“The first step for many young people is the HeadStart Hull website, howareyoufeeling.org.uk. We can then support young people either online, via telephone or text, or in certain circumstances on socially-distanced ‘walk and talk’ sessions.
“I encourage any child or young person who is struggling to look at the support and advice available to help them.”
The website has a wide range of advice and self-help as well as how to access services. It can help in dealing with the impact of covid on home lives, school lives, concerns about exams and friendships. There is a section for young people, one for parents and carers, and also specific support on emotional health during the pandemic.
“How to Stay Calm in a Global Pandemic”, by Dr Emma Hepburn, is a free e-book that gives lots of useful tips and advice. It can be download from the Covid-19 resources section on the website.
The Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families has made an animated video, along with primary school children, to help children understand and talk about mental health.
Any young person, aged 10 to 25, who is feeling worried, stressed, anxious or down is encouraged to get support from HeadStart Hull via the website How Are You Feeling?
Support is also available for parents and carers around emotional difficulties and mental health, parenting skills, coping strategies and improving family wellbeing.
