Mental health and self-care for young people
There's loads of things we can all do to look after our mental wellbeing, and taking any time you can for self-care is massively important.
Knowing what steps we can take to support our mental wellbeing can help us feel better, sleep better and have better relationships with the people around us – and that goes not just for today but for the future too.
Check out our videos for all sorts of tips on exercise, sleep and how to take care of yourself on social media.
You will also find links to more support for specific groups of people who may be finding things tough, have additional needs, or are facing a specific issue.
Self-care videos
Self-care and social media
Lots of us clock up some serious hours online, so let Jade Laurice and her friend KB share tips on how to avoid getting stressed from socials and what else they do to feel good.
Dealing with unhelpful thoughts
We can all have negative thoughts sometimes. Learn how to step outside yourself and stay on top of your feelings – and do not hesitate to get further support if you're really struggling.
Sleep
Sleep affects your mind and body more than you might think, so it's super important to have a healthy sleep pattern. Find out what you lose when you miss your snooze, and how to get enough of those all-important ZZZs.
Dealing with change
Sometimes we feel fine and in control when things change, but at other times we get worked up and stressed out. Super Sam and Helen share tips, tech and advice to help you chill and de-stress.
The Worry Tree
Learn about a great way to stop you from dwelling on things you cannot control and refocus your mind on the choices you can make. And remember: it's always OK to ask for help if you need it.
Sweat
Hear how MC Malik exercises to ease stress, and how setting goals with his mates helps him stick to a regular routine. Any exercise can really boost your mental health.
More self-care ideas
If you're after more info or ideas about any of the issues dealt with in the videos above, there's plenty of great help out there including:
- Young Minds for tips and real stories from other young people
- The Mix on how to stay sane on social media and tips on sleeping
- the Anna Freud Centre to find out about the benefits of physical exercise for self-care
- Childline's Calm Zone if you want loads of ideas to help you chill out, de-stress and embrace the calm
Get more support
If you're struggling with your mental health, or you're worried about one of your friends, there are lots of organisations and charities that offer help specifically for young people.
Support from charities for young people
The Mix has a free, confidential telephone helpline and online service that aims to find you the best help, whatever the problem.
Shout 85258 provides free, confidential, 24/7 text message support in the UK for anyone struggling to cope. They can help with issues including suicidal thoughts, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, abuse, self-harm, relationship problems and bullying. Text "Shout" to 85258 to speak to an empathetic, trained volunteer who will listen and work with you to solve problems.
Young Minds offers support and advice including practical tips and advice from young people, as well as information on where to get support.
If you're under 19, you can also call Childline on 0800 1111 to talk. The number will not appear on your phone bill.
Support from the NHS
You can find more information about NHS children and young people's mental health services (CYPMHS) on the NHS website. You can also look at your local Clinical Commissioning Group website.
Alternatively, most services also have their own website with information about access, referrals (including whether you can "self-refer") and contact details – try searching in your area for "CYPMHS" or "CAMHS" (children and adolescent mental health services, an older term used for some CYPMHS).
You can also talk to an adult you trust – for example a parent, carer, teacher, social worker or GP – and they can look into this for you.
Support for different groups
There are lots of organisations and networks who provide advice and support for specific groups. It can help to connect with other young people and supporters who understand where you are coming from:
- LGBT Hero and the Proud Trust – if you identify as LGBTQ+
- Make Our Rights Reality – your mental health as a young black person
- Barnardo's – young carers and help if you are facing homelessness
- Council for Disabled Children
- Beat – for support with eating disorders
- Become – for children in care and young care leavers
Support for learnig disabilities and autism
- National Autistic Society and Autistica
- Ambitious About Autism has information on health and wellbeing
- Learning Disability England has some tips on looking after your mental wellbeing
- Mencap has lots of help and advice – you can also contact its Learning Disability Helpline
