Mental health is subject that we often talk about, but are we good at making sure that we are looking after ourselves and supporting those around us? We can be better!
Continually looking to keep this important subject in our minds, the theme for this year’s World Mental Health Day is Make Mental Health And Well-Being For All A Global Priority. Hopefully, this can get us thinking about working together to make improvements to services and understanding the impact of poor mental health locally and globally.
As foster carers, many of you will be supporting children and young people who need additional support with their mental health. Young Minds, a charity supporting young people’s mental health needs, who are running their own campaign #HelloYellow, say:
“According to the latest NHS figures, nearly half a million young people are being referred for mental health problems every month, with many not being able to get the support they need. That’s more young people than ever before seeking support – and most aren’t getting the help they need.”
People from all backgrounds can struggle with their mental health. It is important to acknowledge that if you are struggling with your emotions, your feelings are valid and you are not alone. There is help and support out there for you.
Within a fostering household (that’s all of you – adults, children and young people!) you can speak with your Supervising Social Worker about any worries. Hopefully talking things through will help, but they can also advise of other support that may be accessible.
By Lynsey Dobbs, Senior Recruitment Officer – UK Fostering
Sources
https://www.youngminds.org.uk/support-us/fundraising/helloyellow/ Young Minds – Hello Yellow
https://wmhdofficial.com/ World Mental Health Day 2022 including Campaign Toolkit
Resources
https://www.youngminds.org.uk/young-person/ Young Minds – Practical Advice For Young People
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0QXmmP4psbA About Kids Health – You Are Not Your Thoughts
https://www.childrenssociety.org.uk/sites/default/files/2020-10/Young-People-Guide-to-Stressful-Situations.pdf Children’s Society – Stress Guide – by young people for young people to help others through stressful situations
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hnpQrMqDoqE Brain smart BBC – Managing Stress – video for young people