Supporting
Mental Health
Maintaining good mental health
Good mental health is essential for overall well-being, shaping how we think, feel, and interact with the world around us. It empowers individuals to cope with challenges, build meaningful relationships, and achieve personal and academic goals. For young people, maintaining good mental health is especially important as they navigate the pressures of school, friendships, and personal growth. Prioritising mental health fosters resilience, boosts self-confidence, and enhances problem-solving abilities. By nurturing mental wellness, we help create a foundation for a happier, healthier future where individuals can reach their full potential.
Good mental health is characterised by a child or young person’s ability to fulfil a number of key daily living activities, including:
​
-
the ability to learn
-
the ability to feel, express and manage a range of positive and negative emotions
-
the ability to form and maintain good relationships with others
-
the ability to cope with and manage change and uncertainty.
Resources to support children and young people self-manage their emotional and mental health is available from a range of organisations including Young Minds, Mind, NHS, The Zone, Step4 and Kooth.
We are always keen to extend our provision, so please do get in touch if you feel there is anything additional we can provide.
Parents and Carers
Supporting Your Child's Mental Health
At Eggbuckland, we understand the vital role parents play in fostering a positive mental health environment for their children. Here are a few ways you can support your child:
1. Open Communication
Encourage regular conversations about their day, feelings, and any challenges they may face. Show empathy and listen without judgment to create a safe space for them to express themselves.
2. Recognize Warning Signs
Be attentive to changes in behaviour, mood, or academic performance. If you notice signs of stress, anxiety, or withdrawal, gently address your concerns and seek support if needed.
3. Encourage Healthy Habits
Promote balanced routines that include:
• Adequate Sleep: Ensure they get the rest they need to recharge.
• Physical Activity: Encourage activities that boost mood and energy.
• Nutritious Meals: A healthy.
4. Support Their Interests
Help your child explore hobbies and activities that bring them joy and build self-esteem. Whether it’s sports, art, music, or reading, encourage their passions.
5. Stay Involved
Maintain an active role in their education and social life. Attend school events, monitor their workload, and foster a supportive home environment.
6. Seek Professional Help When Needed
If your child seems overwhelmed or is struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out to a counsellor or mental health professional. Early intervention can make a significant difference.
Together, we can create a nurturing environment where every child thrives emotionally, socially, and academically.
​
​
Key services and support​
Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS): The role of Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services is to promote the mental health and psychological well-being of children and young people.
The Zone Plymouth: The Zone offers a wide range of information, advice, counselling and support services to young people, including support for mental health.
Kooth: XenZone is a provider of online mental health services for children, young people and adults. Kooth, from XenZone, is an online counselling and emotional well-being platform for children and young people, accessible through mobile, tablet and desktop and free at the point of use.
Shout: If children and young people are experiencing a personal crisis, are unable to cope and need support, Shout can help with urgent issues such as:
​
-
Suicidal thoughts
-
Abuse or assault
-
Self-harm
-
Bullying
-
Relationship challenges
Text Shout to 85258
Childline: Childline provides a website resource and confidential support line for children and young people under the age of 19 on any issue that they are struggling with, including many that may impact on emotional wellbeing and mental health. Childline is free, confidential and available any time, day or night. Call 0800 1111.
Samaritans (116 123) operates a 24-hour service available every day of the year. If you prefer to write down how you are feeling, or if you are worried about being overheard on the phone, you can email Samaritans on jo@samaritans.org
Pete's Dragons (01395 277780) provides specialist support and advice for those affected by suicide in any way via telephone or email at admin@petesdragons.org.uk.
Papyrus (0800 068 41 41) is a voluntary organisation which speaks openly about suicide and supports teenagers and young adults who have may suicidal thoughts. You can also get in contact with Papyrus via text on 07786 209697 or email via pat@papyrus-uk.org.