How can I support my young person?

Raising children comes with physical, emotional, and social changes — and mental well-being is just as important as physical health. Today's young people face real pressures: school, social media, friendships, and major life changes. These can sometimes feel overwhelming, and that's completely normal.

Mental health isn't about labels or blame — it's about understanding and showing up for your child. Mood changes, withdrawal, or loss of interest can all be signs they need a little extra support. You don't need all the answers; just being present and willing to listen goes a long way.

This site is here to help you understand your child's mental health, open up communication, and access practical resources — so no family has to figure it out alone.

  • Adolescence is a period of significant change for young people. While many changes reflect typical development, at times they may signal emerging challenges with mental health and wellbeing.

    The signs to look out for that may indicate its a mental health challenge include:

    • They seem distant, not like their usual self

    • Have trouble with relationships. They are either isolating themselves or have conflicts with others 

    • Avoid things they usually enjoy e.g hanging out with friends, going to school, stop hobbies

    • Not talk, smile or laugh as much

    • Cry and shout more often

    • Seem less confident 

    • Seem worried or anxious 

    • Seem restless or unsettled most of the time

    • Find it hard to sleep

    • Find it hard to concentrate 

    • Not take care of their hygiene 

    • Do repetitive behaviour like, tap or check things alot 

    • Eat more or less than usual

    • Change the way they dress like wearing baggy tops and long sleeves when the weather is hot

    Looking after a young person with mental health challenges can cause additional stress and worry as a parent.

    Your child may:

    • Push you away and then get upset if you leave

    • Become easily frustrated and angry

    • Say things that hurt you

    Just remember that they are dealing with feelings and emotions they are struggling with and it takes time to adjust.

  • 1. Prioritise connection and safety

    • Let them know they’re not alone. Regularly remind your child that you love them and you’re there to help, even when things are hard.

    • Listen more than you fix. Try to understand their experience without rushing to solutions or minimising their feelings.

    • Validate their emotions. Statements like “That sounds really hard” or “I can see why you’d feel that way” build trust. text goes here

    2. Create a supportive home environment

    • Maintain routines (sleep, meals, school, activities) as much as possible—predictability helps children feel safe.

    • Keep expectations realistic. Mental health difficulties can affect energy, concentration, and behaviour.

    • Reduce pressure and criticism, especially around performance or behaviour they’re struggling to control.

    3. Encourage healthy coping skills

    Help your child find ways to manage emotions that work for them, such as:

    • Talking or journaling

    • Drawing, music, or creative play

    • Physical movement (walking, sports, stretching)

    • Breathing exercises or mindfulness

    • Comfort activities (reading, cuddling, favourite shows)

    Avoid forcing strategies—choice and autonomy matter.

    4. Support professional help (when needed)

    • Seek assessment or therapy if difficulties are persistent, worsening, or interfering with daily life.

    • Work collaboratively with therapists, school counsellors, or doctors.

    • Help your child understand that getting help is not a punishment or a failure, but a form of care.