Teenagers and Young People

At least 10% of young people between the ages of 5-16 years old have issues with their emotional wellbeing or mental health at some point.  It can be really helpful to talk about how you are feeling and there are lots of different types of support available, we have suggested some organisations below.

Sometimes people find it easier to open up about feelings when talking to someone online or via text so we have included those options too in case that feels more comfortable. 

There are also some useful App’s that you can download that might help you cope with some of the more difficult feelings.

Kooth
www.kooth.com
This is an online counselling and emotional wellbeing support for young people, available until 2200 at night.

Solar
www.bsmhft.nhs.uk/our-services/solar-youth-services/
This is Solihull’s emotional wellbeing and mental health service for young people aged 0-19.  You or your carer can make a referral directly via their website.

Young Minds
www.youngminds.org.uk
This is a charity that offers support to young people facing a range of issues including mental health issues, anger, bullying, abuse or problems at school. They have a free 24/7 text message service if you feel you are in crisis ( text YM to 85258) and lots of useful information on their website. They also have a parents helpline 0808 802 5544.

Stem4
www.stem4.org.uk
This is a teenage mental health charity which offers lots of information and practical support suggestions on their website.

There is lots of evidence that practicing mindfulness for a few minutes every day can really help with emotional wellbeing.  There are a couple of free App’s that offer short guided mindfulness meditations that last about 10 minutes, you might like to try them! All you have to do is plug in your headphones and listen.

Headspace App

Calm App (also has some modules that can help with sleep)

If you are struggling with feelings around self harm:

Calm Harm – free to download, self help advice to deal with those feelings and practical advice to help you distract and reduce the desire to self harm.

Crisis

If you are in a crisis situation and your feelings are becoming overwhelming or you are worried you are going to hurt yourself then you can contact:

Childline: 0800 1111 

Emergency services: 999

Or you can go directly to your local AE department who will be able to arrange help and support for you​.