Recent data shows that 1 in 5 school-age children in England now experience a mental health difficulty, yet only a third were able to access treatment last year. In addition:

Between September 2021 and September 2024, the number of children and young people accessing treatment for mental health conditions in England increased by 27%, from 628,454 to 798,479.
In 2020, 1 in 6 children aged 5 to 16 had a probable mental health condition, up from 1 in 9 in 2017.

These figures highlight the urgent need for early intervention and accessible support.

Recognising Signs of Mental Health Challenges in Children

Being aware of behavioural and emotional changes can help identify when a child may need support. Signs to look out for include:

Withdrawal – Avoiding friends, family, or activities they once enjoyed.
Mood swings – Frequent or extreme changes in emotions.
School struggles – A decline in academic performance, lack of concentration, or skipping school.
Sleep issues – Difficulty sleeping, nightmares, or excessive tiredness.
Appetite changes – Eating significantly more or less than usual.
Physical complaints – Regular headaches or stomach aches without a clear cause.

If you notice these signs, consider reaching out to a teacher, GP, or mental health professional for guidance.

Tips for Supporting Your Child’s Mental Well-being

Encourage open conversations – Let children express their feelings without fear of judgment.
Establish routines – A structured daily routine provides a sense of security.
Promote physical activity – Exercise releases endorphins, which boost mood and reduce stress.
Limit screen time – Excessive phone and social media use can increase anxiety and depression.
Model healthy coping strategies – Show children how to manage stress through mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and self-care.
Seek professional help if needed – Support is available through GPs, schools, and organisations such as YoungMinds, Mind, and CAMHS. (See below)

Breaking the Stigma & Moving Forward

Children’s mental health is just as important as their physical health. By creating a supportive environment, recognising early signs, and seeking professional help when needed, we can ensure that children grow into resilient, confident, and emotionally healthy adults.

More Information

The Place2Be website 👉 https://www.place2be.org.uk/

The Mind website 👉 https://www.mind.org.uk/

The Young Minds website 👉 https://www.youngminds.org.uk/

The Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service 👉 (CAMHS) https://www.elft.nhs.uk/camhs

Our Child Mental Health Awareness course 👉 https://hsqe.co.uk/courses/child-mental-health/

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Author: Mark Harvey
(c) HSQE Ltd 05/02/25