Everyone needs help from time to time, we are all unique and life can be chaotic with a lot of demands made upon us. If your child or young person is already going through the change of adolescence then they may need some help to find relief by talking to someone. Below are a few signs to look out for where they may be struggling: -

Persistent Sadness or Anxiety: if your child or young person is showing signs of being low or anxious on most days for more than a couple of weeks, then it’s worth speaking to someone. Persistent negative emotions take the fun out of life and can be an indication that your child or young person needs more support.

Shifts in Appetite or Weight: rapid weight loss or gain without a clear reason can be a sign of underlying distress.
Changes in Sleep Patterns: This could be finding it hard to go to sleep or waking up at different times in the night, or sleeping for far too long.

Withdrawal: If you notice that your child or young person is staying in their room more than usual, they do not join in with family time or meals. They seem to be pulling away from friends, family or interests they once loved, it’s essential to consider why and be curious enough to ask about it.

Feelings of Hopelessness: a young person stating that nothing will get better, or that life is not worth living requires immediate attention. I have given numbers below to ring in an emergency.

Decreased ability to concentrate: Tasks that seemed simple are now overwhelming, or if you notice that your child or young person seems easily distracted, it is worth noting.

Increased irritability or Anger: Your child or young person displays sudden unexpected outbursts or a shorter temper than usual might indicate underlying concerns.

Engaging in Risky Behaviours: This could be increased alcohol, drug or vaping consumption, or reckless activities such as driving to excess speeds.

Your Child/Young Person’s feelings are Valid – No matter what size they are:

It is common to consider that because children and young people are developing all the time that their feelings are ‘another change their going through’! Being curious and willing to check up on signs that don’t quite feel right to you is worth exploring with them, as what may be manageable to one young person may be overwhelming to another.

Counselling as Self-Care

Counselling provides a safe space for a child or young person to express themselves. It can offer fresh perspectives, coping strategies and a greater understand of themselves and others. Counselling is not only for when a young person is in crisis, it can provide a positive step to increase and maintain personal resilience. Having a mental checkup is as good for self-care as a GP checkup.

Taking the Next Step
If you recognize some of the signs mentioned or simply feel that your child or young person could do with talking to someone then trust your instinct. Reach out. Whether it is a GP, or another trusted individual. Beginning that conversation is a brave first step towards their mental health wellbeing.

If your Child or Young Person needs some help then I offer a safe and supportive space online or face-to-face in Stokesley. Get in touch via the form below, or email at info@nickystherapyspace.com or by calling 07485 129603.

OTHER MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES IN THE UK:
Crisis and Liaison Service for Children and Young People –
A Community Service for CYP in Darlington, Teesside, and
North Yorkshire. 0800 0516 171 – Open 24 hours a day, 7 days per week.
Young Minds youngminds.org.uk
KOOTH https://www.kooth.com/
SHOUT Text ‘SHOUT’ 85258 https://giveusashout.org/
CHILDLINE Childline.org.uk 0800 1111 (free 24 hr.)
Self-harm UK: selfharm.co.uk
Harmless: www.harmless.org.uk Email: info@harmless.org.uk
Samaritans: Samaritans.org.uk, Helpline (24 hr.): 08457 90 90 90, 116 123 or Email: jo@samaritans.org
NHS You can contact 111 (24 hours a day) for help, or 999 in an emergency.