A girl and her mum sit at a table as the girl draws a picture

Supporting your child's mental health

Is your child struggling with difficult thoughts or feelings? 

Whether you’re a parent, carer, or guardian, it's important that you're able to support the young person in your life – and we’re here to help. 

Here you will find expert advice and tips, as well as a summary of the mental health support we offer. 

Some support you may be able to ask to access yourself. This is called self-referral. Other times, a GP, teacher, or social worker will need to request this support for you.  

  • Young happy boy

    Looking after a young person's mental wellbeing

    Looking after our mental wellbeing should be a daily habit. Here are a few tips to help you support the mental wellbeing of the young person in your life. 

  • Young girl holding teddy bear

    Anxiety in children and young people 

    If your child is feeling anxious, nervous or panicky, it can make day-to-day life difficult. Here are common symptoms of anxiety, simple ways you can help the young person in your life, as well as the services we offer. 

  • Young girl who looks sad

    Depression in children and young people 

    If you're worried that you child is feeling low or struggling with depression, here's our advice on how you can help them, as well as the support we offer. 

  • Young man who feels low

    Self-harm in children and young people 

    It can be distressing to learn that your child is self-harming. Learn more about what self-harm is, the signs of self-harm, and what you can do to support the young person in your life.

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    Strategies for coping with anxiety and worry

    Learn how to help your child cope with overwhelming feelings from our mental health experts.

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    Join Barnardo’s in calling for mental health support in schools

    Mental Health Support Teams in schools can work with children and young people, families and teachers, helping to identify and support those struggling with their mental health as early as possible.