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Resources created by the Resilience Project - a collaboration between the NHS Cardiff and Vale University Health Board and the Mental Health Foundation - aimed at building greater capacity, expertise and mental health resilience for children and young people.

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For young people / I pobl ifanc

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This hub has been created by young people for young people, it provides information and links to services in relation to your emotional health and well-being.

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Resources for professionals/ Adnoddau I gweithwyr proffesiynol

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Free Social Work Tools and Resources: SocialWorkersToolbox.com

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This 186-page workbook is a fantastic resource containing many exercises and activities designed to help teens think about the patterns of their anxiety and the circumstances around it. This is followed by a lot of practical advice on how to change their habits and boost their self-esteem.
Click here to view/download Contents:
Introduction
About Anxiety
The Chemistry of Anxiety
Peace Is Already Within You
Prevention and Intervention
How You Experience Anxiety
Your Anxiety Patterns
Having an Awesome Attitude
Worrying Is Worthless
All-or-Nothing Thinking
Overgeneralizing
"Should" Statements
Thought Stopping
What's the Worst That Could Happen?
Cost-Benefit Analysis
Perfectionism
Letting Go of Control
Positive Affirmations
Serenity, Courage, and Wisdom
Seeing the Bigger Picture
Talking It Out
Writing It Out
Eating and Anxiety
More Exercise, Less Anxiety
Peaceful Movement
Progressive Relaxation
Centering Yourself
Mindfulness
Following Your Breath
Deep Breathing
Visualization
Meditation
A Higher Power
It's a Cinch by the Inch
Problem Solving
Keeping Your Life in Balance
Staying Organized
Managing Your Time
Unexpressed Anger
Managing Fears and Phobias
Managing Panic
Separating Yourself from Other People's Problems
Future Challenges
Click here to view/download

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The Anxiety Workbook For Teens: Activities to Help You Deal With Anxiety & Worry - Free Social Work Tools and Resources: SocialWorkersToolbox.com

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This 186-page workbook is a fantastic resource containing many exercises and activities designed to help teens think about the patterns of their anxiety and the circumstances around it. This is followed by a lot of practical advice on how to change their habits and boost...

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Resources for professionals/ Adnoddau I gweithwyr proffesiynol

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For young people/ I pobl ifanc

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Talking about anger | #ListenToAnger | YoungMinds

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Our Mental Health Space - Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust

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Fight Flight Freeze – Anxiety Explained For Teens

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For young people/ I pobl ifanc

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For young people / I pobl ifanc

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Anger is normal. But it can get out of hand. Here are some tips for calming down and taking control of your anger.

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Sometimes a bit of anger can be a very good thing, especially when it prompts us to tackle social injustices. But when it comes to 'losing it' and harming yourself (or someone else), that's different. The Mix looks at how you can control your anger.

We often read about celebrities throwing tantrums and we see this kind of behaviour on TV all the time. This may make us feel that such behaviour is OK and normal, but it's not usually a productive way to deal with angry feelings and it can be terrifying for other people to witness.

Be assertive

One reason why some people get angry is that they find it hard to express themselves. They tend not to speak up for themselves and bottle everything up only to surprise everyone by exploding in anger. The trick here is to learn to be assertive rather than aggressive. This means that in relationships, at college, or at work, you need to learn to put your point of view across earlier rather than later - and while you are still calm. In order to do that, you have to feel that you are entitled to have your say. The way to be assertive is to use the word "I" a lot. Once you start using the word "you', you will sound angry and much less in control.
Here are some "I" examples:

"I don't understand exactly what you're asking me to do. I'd like you to explain it again."

"I really don't want to go to Prague for my hen night. I'd much prefer Dublin."

"I'm not keen to stay in and have a take-away. I'd like us to go to the cinema. We haven't been out for ages."

Here are some "you" examples:

"You never explain things. You're hopeless."

"You are so bloody bossy. You must stop organising me."

"You make me sick. You're so mean and boring."

Hopefully you should see that that the first set of examples are more likely to be effective, while the 'you' examples are more likely to upset you and others.

Tempers and tantrums

Anger doesn't always stem from people's problems with assertiveness. Excess stress can make people irritable and angry. Some people may have been brought up to think that anger and violence is normal. Others might just feel that they're entitled to 'blow' because they have a very short fuse.
How do you know if your temper is getting out of control?

You are always, or very often, irritated and stressed to the point where you shout at people, throw or break things.

You often look back and regret an angry outburst.

Friends, colleagues and family find it hard to forgive your anger.

People seem frightened of you.

What can you do to improve things yourself?

You can work on becoming a calmer person by:

Anger management techniques

If you get to the point where you are so furious you are 'seeing red' and are ready to hit someone, try this:

1. Step back. People who lose control, and who may even hit someone, are always moving forward. So by taking a step back, you literally stop yourself in your track

2. Steady yourself by holding onto something like a desk or the top of a chair

3. Breathe deeply. This is the best way to defuse your anger and tension. Mentally count to 10 - breathing in and out as you do so

4. Punch something soft. If you're still furious, punch a cushion. If there's nothing soft, then bang on the door, the wall or a table; anything rather than taking out your anger on a person.

Medical treatment

If you have a serious problem with anger, Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) could help you. Your doctor (GP) may be able to refer you for this on the NHS. If you are able to pay privately for CBT, you can find a therapist through the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies

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Sometimes a bit of anger can be a very good thing, especially when it prompts us to tackle social injustices. But when it comes to 'losing it' and harming yourself (or someone else), that's different. The Mix looks at how you can control your anger.

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How to start the day in a good way

One of the most important parts of a routine is having a good start to the day. Try these things when you wake up:

1. Give yourself more time in the morning - set an alarm at the same time everyday and give yourself an extra 10 minutes so you don't need to rush
2. Take a few minutes after you wake up to ask yourself how you're feeling
3. Drink a glass of water to kick start your body and mind
4. Shower or splash your face with cool water to wake you up
5. Always have breakfast
6. Take 5 deep breaths, in through your nose and out through your mouth
7. Do some relaxing morning exercises.

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One of the most important parts of a routine is having a good start to the day. Try these things when you wake up: 1. Give yourself more time in the morning - set an alarm at the same time everyday and give yourself an extra 10 minutes so you don't need to rush2.

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Post credit: Dr Caroline Leaf

"People tend to believe that grief shrinks over time. What really happens is that we grow around our grief."

Three jars of the same size sit in a row. Each jar contains a ball which gets smaller in size from left to right. The text underneath reads: "People tend to believe that grief shrinks over time."

Below that there are three more jars each with a ball inside. These jars get progressively bigger from left to right, but each of the balls is the same size. The text underneath reads: "What really happens is that we grow around our grief."

We all grieve differently

There's no right or wrong way to grieve and everyone grieves in different ways. You might feel angry, sad, depressed, guilty, relieved, or any other number of emotions. Or you might be numb and not feel anything at all. However you're feeling is okay and is a normal reaction to losing someone.

Because we all grieve differently, how you react might be different to how other people around you react. For example, the way you grieve might be influenced by your culture, beliefs, or how your family and community understand loss. Your grief might also be influenced by what you feel others expect of you, but it's important to remember that however you're feeling is valid - there's nothing wrong with you if you don't react to loss the way others do.

While it's important to look after yourself when grieving, it's also important to be sensitive to how other people are grieving and accept that everyone's experience is unique.

Remember, too, that grief can come up at any time. There might be some occasions when you are expecting it, like when you experience one of many 'firsts', such as your first holiday or birthday without that person. Or these feelings might catch you unaware sometimes. It might be that you don't feel anything for a while, and then experience delayed grief. All of these experiences are normal.
In this video, our Activists share their experiences of grief.
If you're grieving, this is for you

There are a mixture of emotions and responses associated with grief and you may feel all, some or none of these. However you're feeling, your feelings are valid and you are not alone.

You might feel:

shock

panic

sadness or depression

anger

fear or anxiety

guilt

relief

numbness, or nothing

concerned with your health or other people's

abandoned

You might also experience physical symptoms of grief, including:

crying, often when you least expect it

aches, pains and headaches

loss of appetite

fatigue or difficulty sleeping

When my best friend passed away, I barely remember the first few months after he died. I was weighed down by this cloud of absolute nothing. For me, that was one of the things I never knew about grief. It can be so many emotions - or it can be nothing at all.

Ryan's story: How I started talking about my grief

Feelings of guilt and anger

Some people may feel guilty, or like it's their fault. But remember, the loss you have experienced is not your fault. And if you stop feeling sad or in pain, it does not mean that you've stopped caring. You are allowed to feel happy, find enjoyment in things and move forward in your life, and it is not a sign that you don't care enough for the person you have lost.

You may also feel angry, especially if you felt certain choices were taken away from you, such as not being able to visit to say goodbye. You may particularly feel angry if you lost someone during the Covid-19 pandemic. But remember that nothing you said or did caused - or could have changed - what happened, and it is not your fault.

It takes time to work through grief and it's best not to do it alone. Sometimes you might be surprised by feelings of sadness when you don't expect them - or you might keep worrying about other people's health, or your own. These feelings are all normal. While grief may never fully go away, most of us get through these feelings with the support of family and friends, and learn how to move forward in a new direction.

If you're struggling to come to terms with a death, you're finding daily life hard and things don't seem to be getting any better, it can help to talk to someone. Tell a trusted friend, family member or teacher how you're feeling. It's okay to ask others to be with you if you need them.

The 'grief cycle' describes how people adapt in stages after losing someone. Research suggests there are five common stages of grief, but remember that grief is a completely individual process and these stages do not always appear in the same order for everybody. Some people may not experience these stages at all.

Instagram artwork by @janellesilver - white text over a black background reads: 'this is how it feels sometimes' with a person sitting in the corner.

It is common to move forwards and backwards through these stages and some people may have a completely different experience of grief altogether.

If you feel as though your grief is making it hard for you to go about daily life, talk to your GP about counselling and professional support.

If you're experiencing any of the below, these could be signs that you should seek outside help:

Talking to your GP about bereavement can be scary, but they can help you find the right support.

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Post credit: @laurasnest.de

A watercolour image of a blue circle with text reading: "Small progress is still progress".

You may find it helpful to express your grief in different ways. Here are some things you could try to help communicate how you are feeling:

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Instagram artwork by @_ellamasters_ - the word: 'Hope' on a blue patterned background.

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Instagram artwork by @crazyheadcomics - clouds with raining and thunder that has tips on different ways of coping with grief.

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Instagram artwork by @_ellamasters_ - two hands holding with the words: 'until we meet again, brother.'

It can be difficult to know what to say to someone who is grieving, but your support could really help. Connections with family and friends can help someone who is grieving to feel supported and loved.

Marie Curie has more tips and advice on supporting someone who is grieving.

Big occasions, such as birthdays and holidays like Eid or Christmas, can be a painful time if you've lost someone important to you. Being around lots of friends and family can cause you to think about the people who aren't there, which can bring feelings of grief and loss to the surface.

On these occasions, it's important to remember to look after yourself. If you feel things are becoming too much, make sure to give yourself time away from others. Give yourself space to remember that your loved one is not there and that it's natural to miss them. Remember too that everyone grieves differently, so try and be sensitive to the needs of your friends and family as well.

You might find it helpful before a big family or social occasion to make a plan of what you're going to do if you start to feel overwhelmed. For example, it might help to tell someone you trust about your concerns, so you have someone to check in with or take a timeout with if things get too much. Or maybe you could think about taking breaks and finding a quiet space to ground yourself before joining the group again.

You may find it helpful to use big occasions as a way to remember someone you've lost. Take a look at some tips below for ways to honour the memory of your loved one.

During the Christmas holidays there is often an unspoken pressure on everyone to come across as cheerful. Please know that you do not have to pretend that you're okay just for the comfort of others.

Artwork by Brooke Petermann. The words: 'hold hands' are in a circle on a white background.

Whether you love the page or think something is missing, we appreciate your feedback. It all helps us to support more young people with their mental health.

Please be aware that this form isn't a mental health support service. If you are in crisis right now and want to talk to someone urgently, find out who to contact on our urgent help page.

At YoungMinds we take your privacy seriously. If you'd like to read more about how we keep the information we collect safe, take a look at our privacy policy.

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Dealing with grief and loss | Mental health advice

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It can be really hard and painful to lose someone you know. Find out how to deal with grief and loss, and what help is available for bereavement.

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For parents and carers / i rhieni a gofalwyr

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How you can help with your child's mental health

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Work through a mental health self-help guide for anxiety that uses cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).

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For young people/ I pobl ifanc

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How can counselling services help my child?

Many young people are struggling with how they feel. They are having problems with friends, family or school, they are anxious, depressed, angry or scared and need to talk to someone, but find it difficult to talk to people they know. Counselling and other advice services can help them talk things through, support them without making them feel judged, and in confidence (unless they disclose that their personal safety is at risk). Advice services can make a positive difference to their lives.

The range of advice services for children and young people includes face-to-face counselling, one-to-one phone calls, webchat, email, forums and face-to-face sessions.
How counselling can help young people
Counselling is the most common form of talking therapy and is sometimes available on the NHS through the GP surgery, or through school-based counselling. It can help young people deal with issues and events and the effects they are having on their mental wellbeing. Counselling could be recommended for young people who are basically healthy but who are struggling with a mental health disorder such as depression or eating disorders; it can address problems with anxiety, bereavement; bullying, anger, relationships, low self-esteem, and self-harm. The counsellor will help explore the problem, the symptoms and strategies for coping.
Different types of counselling
There are different types of counselling, but the most common ones recommended for young people are:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): The approach of CBT is about thinking more positively about life, looking at how you can get stuck in patterns of behaviour and ways of changing these rather than dwelling on past events. There are typically six or 12 weekly sessions and the therapist sets goals with the young person, often with 'homework' to do in between.

Mindfulness: Mindfulness is often combined with CBT and helps a young person to focus on difficult thoughts and feeling, rather than avoiding them, so that the fear of them gradually lessens. Therapists can also include meditation, yoga and breathing exercises.

Psychotherapy: This is a more long-term therapy and involves talking about the effects of past events and can be more helpful with long-term problems such as depression or eating disorders. NHS psychotherapists work in clinics or hospitals; some private psychotherapists work from home.

Family Therapy: The whole family works with the family therapist to try and understand the problems they are all having. It can help improve communications between family members and issues such as children's behavioural problems, disability, family breakdown, addiction and domestic violence.

How can I help my child?

Friends and family can be vital sources of support and can help young people cope with stressful situations and difficult times. When a young person is feeling down or having a hard time, it is important for them to spend time with other people.

Be positive about counselling as an option. Your child might well not 'gel' with the first counsellor they see (and this is like people we meet everywhere - we get on with some and not with others). Look for someone else, rather than giving up. Remember they might feel more comfortable with an online service, rather than a face-to-face.

You might want to keep a copy of the U can cope! leaflet (Royal College of Psychiatrists) nearby to read for practical ideas on coping with difficulties. And remember to be hopeful.
These are things that can really make a difference:

1. Notice changes in your child's mood. Your instinct will probably tell you if your child is not feeling their best.

2. Your child may feel that you won't understand but you can often surprise them... and yourself!

3. It is important to let them know that you care about them, want what's best for them and are willing to help if you can.

4. Be open and available for them to talk over problems, things that are bothering or stressing them or how they are feeling.

5. Pick a time that is good for you both, where you have enough time to have a proper conversation without being interrupted.

6. Ask what you can do to help. Stay calm and positive and try to be the 'strong one'.

7. Make it clear you will not say anything to anybody else if they don't want you to. (An exception will be if you have a significant concern for their safety).

8. Help with practical support; for example, if your child has to go for an appointment but feels uncomfortable about going on their own, go with them, even if you wait outside.

9. Provide emotional support; this is often a case of listening and being empathetic, rather than trying to find answers or solutions.

10. Suggest people your child might be safe to confide in (e.g. mum, dad, sibling, other relative, friend, GP, helpline). Encourage them to think about:

who they feel easy talking to about personal matters

who is non-judgemental and a good listener

someone they have known for a while rather than a new friend

someone who may have been in a similar situation and would have empathy. (This is often why people choose forums because they feel comfortable talking to people who have experienced similar things to them)

Where can I find a counsellor for my child?

A GP might try to refer a young person to the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) for counselling, but it is increasingly difficult to do this - the child's symptoms generally have to be quite extreme to meet referral thresholds and waiting lists can be very long. However, they might know about alternative local counselling provision for young people.

Schools can also refer young people to CAMHS. In addition, many schools have their own counsellor or mental health nurse on site and young people can often benefit hugely from having this kind of support in school.

Charities offer opportunities for young people to get advice, support and solidarity from helplines, group forums and message boards, email- webchat- text- and email services.

Counsellors and therapists are available privately - it can seem quite overwhelming trying to find someone you think is suitable, so check on bona fide directories and look for recommendations.

British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)

Professional body that sets standards for therapeutic practice, and provides information for therapists, clients of therapy, and the general public. Website includes information about counselling and psychotherapy and how to find the right therapist.

Phone: 01455 883 300 (Mon-Fri 09:00 - 17:00)

Counselling for families - Relate

Support, guidance and counselling services for families and young people. When families are going through a tough time, relate offers support to help everyone settle. Phone: 0300 100 1234 or contact your local Relate Centre.

Online and phone support for children and young people:

Children can confidentially call, email, or chat online about any problem big or small

Freephone helpline: 0800 1111 (24 hour service)

Sign up for a childline account on the website to message a counsellor anytime without email

Provides a confidential helpline, email, webchat and telephone counselling service for young people under 25. Advice and information on support services for young people including counselling.

Freephone: 0808 808 4994 (daily 13:00-23:00)

Provides free, safe, anonymous online support for young people - counselling, messaging, personal stories. Only available in certain parts of England and Wales.

Relate (for children and young people)

Children and young people's counselling for any young person who's having problems.

Free Live Chat session with a trained Relate Counsellor

Phone: 0300 100 1234

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Counselling Services for Children and Young People

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Many young people are struggling with how they feel. They are having problems with friends, family or school, they are anxious, depressed, angry or scared and need to talk to someone, but find it difficult to talk to people they know.

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For young people/ I pobl ifanc

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Essential support for under 25s

The Mix Counselling service is suitable for you if you are looking for short-term help with your mental health and emotional wellbeing. Our Telephone and Webchat counselling service is available to young people aged 25 years old and under. Our counsellors aim to support by listening to your problems and helping you find ways to cope in a confidential, safe space.

Counselling sessions could help with issues such as:

- A bereavement (death) or relationship breakdown
- Stress / anxiety
- Exploring issues like your sexual identity / gender identity
- Dealing with issues that are stopping you achieving your ambitions
- Dealing with feelings of depression or sadness
- Understanding yourself and your problems better
- Feeling more confident

You will usually be offered up to eight counselling sessions that last around 50 minutes each.

If you're thinking about counselling but you're not quite sure if it's for you, here are some links that you might find useful:

What to expect from counselling: a guide
Expert chat: what to expect from counselling
Your first counselling session

To receive counselling please complete the form below.

The Mix takes your privacy very seriously, all the information you provide us in the form are used from the Counselling Team only for allocation, safeguarding, training and evaluation purposes. Please read more about our privacy and confidentiality policies and terms of use.
Be as honest as you can. If worried for your safety the counselling team may have to activate the "risk assessment" procedure.
Our service is not suitable for you if you are;

26 years old +

Living outside the UK

Already receiving counselling from another service

If you are on a waiting list for treatment you can still access our service. It can be tricky knowing what to do while on these waiting lists, so have a read of our article for further support and ideas
If you feel that you want to end your life, please call 999 to seek immediate help from the emergency services. You can also contact HopeLineUK on 0800 068 41 41 or Samaritans on 116 123

The Mix. Registered charity number: 1048995

Welcome to The Mix, a support service for young people. There are loads of ways you can get support from us, including our articles, videos, helpline, counselling, forums, apps and more. To find which service suits your needs use the drop down menu below.

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Welcome to The Mix, the online guide to life for young people in the UK.

Your Voices is a community-focused section of The Mix where you can share stories about your experiences on a specific issue. Upload your own videos, images, blog posts, and playlists to Your Voices and share them with your friends.

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The Mix takes your privacy very seriously, all the information you provide us in the form are used from the Counselling Team only for allocation, safeguarding, training and evaluation purposes. Please read more about our privacy and confidentiality policies and terms of use. Be as honest as you can.

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A comprehensive approach to helping depressed teens combines professional therapy and/or medication with self-help strategies. These self-help strategies can help to shift negative patterns and provide your teen with tools they can implement and explore on their own.

Exercise Often

Movement helps combat depression in a variety of ways, including releasing feel-good chemicals into the brain. Participating in physical activity may help improve your teen's mood, and any type of movement can make a difference, whether it's walking the dog, dancing in the shower or skateboarding. Exercise also increases body temperature, which may produce a feeling of calmness, and help take your teen's mind off of their troubles.

Pay Attention to Nutrition

Food fuels the body and the mind. Some foods tend to make depression worse and some may make it better.

For teens who thrive on junk food, adding more nutritious foods to their diet often makes a big difference in how they feel. If you need more information about how to implement a healthier diet, schedule a session with a nutritionist who works with teens, or search for related information in books and online.

Socialize and Find Support

Isolation leads to loneliness, which may lead to increased feelings of depression. Unfortunately, a common symptom of depression in teens is social withdrawal. What often helps is to socialize and stay connected with others. A teen struggling with depression may need peers who will listen and lend their support. Sometimes other depressed teens are in the best position to do this, so consider an online support group specifically for depressed teens.

Vent Feelings

Pent-up feelings and emotions sometimes need to be discharged in healthy ways in order to combat depression. The process of doing so can also help identify some of the negative feelings that often go along with depression. Keep in mind, however, that if this becomes a habit it can ultimately lead to rumination, which can produce a more depressed, unhappy mood.

Focus on Sleep Patterns

Sleep often plays a role in how a teen feels physically and emotionally. Track your teen's sleep patterns for a few days to get more information.

In cases where more, or less, sleep is needed, learn about the factors that impact sleep and consult a health professional if needed.

Don't Use Drugs

When a teen doesn't like how they feel or act, sometimes they experiment with drugs, including caffeine, in an effort to cope with their feelings. In most cases, your teen doesn't realize they're self-medicating; they're just looking for ways to try to feel better. Teens who turn to alcohol and drugs usually make a bad situation worse.

A report from the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), revealed that marijuana use among teens can worsen depression and lead to serious mental disorders like schizophrenia, anxiety, and even suicide.

Experiencing joy and happiness in life is important. When depression gets in the way, efforts to focus on fun can make a difference. Try to get your teen to participate in activities that bring a sense of pleasure. Start by having them jot down a list of anything that is fun, silly, or creates a moment of joy, then try to include one of these in each day's activities.

Self-Help Strategies Support Professional Treatment

Self-help strategies are not intended to replace professional treatment and are best utilized as tools to supplement therapy and/or medication by decreasing symptoms and empowering teens to feel better and more in control of their lives.

A Word From Verywell

If you haven't already, make it a priority to set up an appointment for your teen with an adolescent therapist. Mental health issues are usually very treatable, especially when there's emotional support from a mental health professional as well as the teen's family.

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Self-Help Strategies for Depressed Teens

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A comprehensive approach to helping depressed teens combines professional therapy and/or medication with self-help strategies. These self-help strategies can help to shift negative patterns and provide your teen with tools they can implement and explore on their own. Movement helps combat depression in a variety of ways, including releasing feel-good chemicals into the brain.

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People feel stressed when they feel like the demands or pressures on them are more than what they can cope with.

Everyone feels stressed at times. You may feel under pressure, worried, tense, upset, sad, and angry - or maybe a mixture of uncomfortable feelings.

These feelings can be entirely normal, but sometimes stress can get too much and can even trigger a mental illness. Sometimes people try to 'block out' stress by using drugs or alcohol. This makes things worse in the long run.

It is important to get help if stress is getting too much or you are using drugs or alcohol to try and cope.

What causes stress?

There are many reasons why you might feel stressed. For example:

school work piling up

preparing for exams

being teased or bullied at school

arguing with parents, brothers or sisters, or friends.

Stress can be even worse if your family is breaking up, someone close to you is ill or dies, or if you are being physically or sexually abused.

People vary in the amount that they get stressed by things - you may find that you get very stressed out by exams, but your friends don't seem bothered!

Positive events can also be stressful! For example starting a new college or going to university. Many people need a little bit of stress to give them the "get up and go" to do things that are important to them.

Stress can affect different people in different ways. Stress can affect your body and your feelings. Some of the effects are listed below:

Effects on your body:

feeling tired

having difficulty sleeping

going off your food

stomach aches

headaches

aches and pains in your neck and shoulders.

Effects on your feelings:

feeling sad

being irritable, losing your temper easily

finding it hard to keep your mind on school work.

There are several things that you can do to help yourself cope.

Don't suffer in silence! Feeling alone makes stress harder to deal with.

Talking to somebody you trust can really help you to deal with stress and to work out how to tackle the problems that are causing it.

Make a list of all the things in your life that are making you feel stressed- write them down on a piece of paper. Then take each one in turn and list all the things you could do to tackle it. This can help you sort things out in your head. Problems look easier to deal with one at a time than in a big jumble in your head!

Take a break - do something that you really enjoy.

Do something relaxing, for example take a hot bath or watch a film.

Do some exercise. This produces chemicals in your body called 'endorphins' which make you feel good!

Sometimes stress gets on top of you, especially when the situation causing the stress goes on and on and the problems just seem to keep building up. You can feel trapped, as if there is no way out and no solution to your problems. If you feel like this, it is important to get help.

Signs that stress is getting too much and that you should get help:

You feel that stress is affecting your health.

You feel so desperate that you think about stopping school, running away or harming yourself.

You feel low, sad, tearful, or that life is not worth living.

You lose your appetite and find it difficult to sleep.

You have worries, feelings and thoughts that are hard to talk about because you feel people won't understand you or will think you are 'weird'.

You hear voices telling you what to do, or making you behave strangely.

You are using drugs or alcohol to block out stress.

It is important that you talk to someone you trust and can help you like:

a close friend

parents, a family member or family friend

a school nurse, teacher or school counsellor

a social worker or youth counsellor

a priest, someone from your church or temple.

Some people may find it easier to talk to somebody on the phone. See the section on further information below for details of confidential advice lines- childline for any young person in difficulty and 'Talk to Frank' for anyone wanting help or advice about drug problems.

Your GP or another professional can refer you to your local child and adolescent mental health service (CAMHS).

"It started a few months ago, during year 11. I had a lot of work to do because it was my GCSE year but I was off for two weeks in April because I had tonsillitis and I needed an operation.

When I went back to school, I had missed tons of work and I was given extra homework to do to catch up. I tried really hard to get this done on top of my coursework but I just got more and more behind. I started to think I'd never be able to catch up and I thought I'd fail all my GCSEs.

It got to the point where I couldn't sleep because I was worrying too much and although I was spending more and more time doing homework, I couldn't actually concentrate on it because I just kept thinking about how much I had to do. I was really snappy and horrible to my family and I had stopped seeing my friends.

I didn't want to get any help because I thought I'd look stupid but my mum dragged me to see my head of year, Mrs Young. I'm glad she did because Mrs Young was really understanding about the mess I had got in and she helped me to sort it out.

She spoke to my class teachers and they agreed that I didn't need to do all of the outstanding work, just the most important bits.

Two of my teachers spent some time with me after school, going through some bits of my courses I hadn't understood properly. I was given some time out of lessons to catch up on my coursework.

Within a couple of weeks I was fully caught-up and I was feeling much better because I was sleeping properly and seeing friends again. I got good grades in my GCSEs and I'm going to college in September."

ChildLine - A free and confidential telephone service for children. You can also get in touch by email or by confidential live one-to-one webchat. Helpline 0800 1111.

Epic friends - Mental health problems are common. This website is all about helping you to help your friends who might be struggling emotionally.

Samaritans - Provides a 24-hour service offering confidential emotional support to anyone who is in crisis. Helpline 08457 909090 (UK), 1850 609090 (ROI); e-mail: jo@samaritans.org

Talk to Frank - An organisation that gives confidential advice on drugs, including their effects and how to get help if drugs are a problem in your life. You get speak to an adviser by calling Freephone 0800776600, or Text 82111, or you can email an adviser via their website.

Young Minds - Provides information for children and young people on mental health and emotional wellbeing issues.

Youth Access - Offers information, advice and counselling throughout the UK.

Or try this website: Teenage Health Freak

Useful CD: Rays of Calm, Christiane Kerr, Audio CD/Audiobook: CD from the "Calm For Kids" range created for teenagers. It talks through various relaxation techniques and visualisations designed to promote a sense of calm and wellbeing and to help teenagers deal with stress.

Leaflet

U Can Cope! How to cope when life is difficult. Information on how to get help when you are feeling emotionally overwhelmed.

References

Rutter M, Bishop D, Pine D, Scott S, Stevenson J, Taylor E & Thapar A(eds) (2008) Rutter's Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (5th edn). Oxford: Blackwell.

Krenke I, Aunola K & Nurmi J (2009). Changes in stress perception and coping during adolescence: the role of situational and personal factors. Child Development; 80(1): 259 - 279.

Kraag G, Van Breukelen G, Kok G & Hosman C (2009). 'Learn young, learn fair', a stress management program for fifth and sixth graders: longitudinal results from an experimental study. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry; 50(9)\; 9: 1185-1195.

Gelder M, Harrison P & Cowen P (2006). Shorter Oxford Textbook of Psychiatry (5th ed.) Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Credits

Revised by the Royal College of Psychiatrists' Child and Family Public Engagement Editorial Board (CAFPEB).

With grateful thanks to Erica Lam, Dr Virginia Davies, Dr Vasu Balaguru, and Thomas Kennedy.

This resource reflects the best possible evidence at the time of writing.

About this information

This information reflects the best available evidence at the time of writing. This mental health information for young people was written in 2020.
© November 2020 Royal College of Psychiatrists

The Adventures of Dr Ori: Coping with stress

Discover how Chloe, age 16, learns to cope with stress.

Read the comic (PDF)

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Coping with stress - for young people| Royal College of Psychiatrists

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People feel stressed when they feel like the demands or pressures on them are more than what they can cope with. Everyone feels stressed at times. You may feel under pressure, worried, tense, upset, sad, and angry - or maybe a mixture of uncomfortable feelings.

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Tell us more

What do you want to tell us about?

Note:

Please don't include personal details like your name or email address. If you do, data protection law means we'll have to delete your comments.

Unfortunately we can't reply to this. If you want a response from us, see our Contact us page.

If you are in crisis right now and want to talk to someone urgently then you could call Samaritans on 116 123 (freephone). Our pages on crisis services have more options.

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Tell us more What do you want to tell us about? Note: Please don't include personal details like your name or email address. If you do, data protection law means we'll have to delete your comments. Unfortunately we can't reply to this. If you want a response from us, see our Contact us page.

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Exams! You're either right in the middle of them or about to start right now. So how do YOU deal with exam stress that comes with them? Take a quick break and watch our film about how Snoochie Shy deals with this kind of stress and check out her mix
Tracklist:
Poor Sport ft Divoli S'vere - Get Like Me

Boy Jamez - KnightRyder (Ha)

Kelley - Enemy (MA Nguzu Ironsoul Edit)

LAKIM - NiceYungGal

Shystie - Pull it

OI WAKKA (AFRO BROS 2K15 MIX)

Majora - Boss Key (Sergic remix)

Creep N00m - Silo Chat

NAOS - ~ A S H A N T I F L I P ~

Dizzee Rascal - Stand Up Tall (Celestial Trax Secret Bootleg)

Lewi B - Luigi

Lolingo - New Cross Gate

Young Thug - Danny Glover (LAKIM Rework)

Rapid "Pounded Yam" - Boiler Room Debuts

Premiere: Wen ft. Riko Dan - 'Play Your Corner (Walton Remix)'

Rizzla - BADMIND HA

Finn - Keep Calling (Fallow's Keep Ballin' Remix)

Lancey Foux - About it

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Exams! You're either right in the middle of them or about to start right now. So how do YOU deal with exam stress that comes with them?

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Most people feel low sometimes, but if it's affecting your life, there are things you can try that may help.
Support is also available if you're finding it hard to cope with low mood, sadness or depression.

Coronavirus advice

Get advice about coronavirus and looking after your mental wellbeing:

Symptoms of a low mood

Symptoms of a general low mood may include feeling:

sad

anxious or panicky

more tired than usual or being unable to sleep

angry or frustrated

low on confidence or self-esteem

A low mood often gets better after a few days or weeks.

It's usually possible to improve a low mood by making small changes in your life. For example, resolving something that's bothering you or getting more sleep.

Symptoms of depression

If you have a low mood that lasts 2 weeks or more, it could be a sign of depression.

Other symptoms of depression may include:

If you're not sure how you feel, try our mood self-assessment.

Things you can try to help with a low mood

Don't

do not try to do everything at once; set small targets that you can easily achieve

do not focus on the things you cannot change - focus your time and energy into helping yourself feel better

try not to tell yourself that you're alone - most people feel low sometimes and support is available

try not to use alcohol, cigarettes, gambling or drugs to relieve a low mood. These can all contribute to poor mental health

Audio: low mood and depression

In this audio guide, a doctor explains what you can do to help yourself cope with low mood and depression.

Further information and support

The mental health charity Mind offers more information on:

Your Mind Plan on the Every Mind Matters website sends personalised tips and advice to your email inbox.

Where to get NHS help for a low mood

Referring yourself for therapy

If you need more support, you can get free psychological therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) on the NHS.

You can refer yourself directly to an NHS psychological therapies service (IAPT) without a referral from a GP.

you've had a low mood for more than 2 weeks

you're struggling to cope with a low mood

things you're trying yourself are not helping

you would prefer to get a referral from a GP

Ask for an urgent GP appointment or call 111 if:

you need help urgently, but it's not an emergency

111 can tell you the right place to get help if you need to see someone. Go to 111.nhs.uk or call: 111.

Causes of a low mood

There are many reasons why you might feel low at some point in your life.

Any sort of difficult event or experience could lead to sadness or low self-esteem. Sometimes it's possible to feel low without there being an obvious reason.

Identifying the cause

If you know what's causing your low mood it might be easier to find ways to manage it.

Some examples of things that may cause a low mood include:

work - feeling pressure at work, unemployment or retirement

family - relationship difficulties, divorce or caring for someone

financial problems - unexpected bills or borrowing money

health - illness, injury or losing someone (bereavement)

Even significant life events such as buying a house, having a baby or planning a wedding could lead to feelings of sadness.

You might find it hard to explain to people why you feel this way, but talking to someone could help you find a solution.

Find out more about the 5 steps to mental wellbeing.

Conditions related to low mood and depression

feeling low or depressed in a seasonal pattern, usually during winter
seasonal affective disorder (SAD)

feeling low or depressed after the birth of a child
postnatal depression

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Get help with low mood, sadness or depression

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Most people feel low sometimes, but if it's affecting your life, there are things you can try that may help. Support is also available if you're finding it hard to cope with low mood, sadness or depression.

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For young people/ I pobl ifanc

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Feeling sad is a normal reaction to experiences that are stressful or upsetting. However, when these feelings go on and on, take over your usual self and interfere with your whole life, it can become an illness. This illness is called 'depression'.

A young person with depression may experience major problems not only with how they feel, but also with how they behave. This may cause difficulties at home and at school, as well as in relationships with family and friends. Some young people start taking risks.

These can include missing school, harming themselves (for example by cutting), misusing drugs or alcohol, and having inappropriate sexual relationships. Sometimes young people with depression may even try to kill themselves.

At the extreme end of depression, a small number of young people may develop 'psychotic' symptoms that may include very unusual and sometimes unpleasant thoughts and experiences like hearing voices.

A small number of young people also have periods of high mood, known as 'mania', along with periods of low mood. They may be suffering from bipolar affective disorder.

How common is it?

Depression is thought to occur in about 1-3% of children and young people. Anybody can suffer from depression and it affects people of all ages, ethnicities, and social backgrounds.

It is more common in older adolescents, particularly teenage girls, but can affect children of any age.

Some of the symptoms you are suffering from depression include:

being moody and irritable - easily upset, 'ratty' or tearful

becoming withdrawn - avoiding friends, family and regular activities

feeling guilty or bad, being self-critical and self-blaming - hating yourself

feeling unhappy, miserable and lonely a lot of the time

feeling hopeless and wanting to die

finding it difficult to concentrate

not looking after your personal appearance

changes in sleep pattern: sleeping too little or too much

feeling tired

not interested in eating, eating little or too much

suffering aches and pains, such as headaches or stomach-aches

feeling you are not good looking.

If you have all or most of these signs and have had them over a long period of time, it may mean that you are depressed. You may find it very difficult to talk about how you are feeling

There is no specific cause for depression. It is usually caused by a mixture of things, rather than any one thing alone such as:

or personal experiences can be a trigger. These include family breakdown, the death or loss of someone you love, neglect, abuse, bullying and physical illness.

Depression can start if too many changes happen in your life too quickly.

You are more likely to suffer from depression if you are under a lot of stress, have no one to share their worries with.

Depression may run in families and can be more common if you already suffer from physical illness or difficulties.

Depression seems to be linked with chemical changes in the part of brain that controls mood.

What can I do if I am feeling low?

You can try a few things to see if it helps you feel better.

Simply talking to someone you trust, and who you feel understands, can lighten the burden. It can also make it easier to work out practical solutions to problems.

For example, if you feel unable to do your homework, letting your family and teachers know can be helpful for you to get some support to complete your work.

Here are some things to try:

talk to someone whom you trust and can help

try to do some physical activity and eat healthy food

try to keep yourself occupied by doing activities, even if you feel you do not really enjoy them

try not to stay all alone in your room, especially during the day

don't overstress yourself and allow for fun and leisure time.

How parents/family and teachers can help?

When you have depression, you may feel ashamed and guilty of the way you are. You may worry about upsetting others especially family, or being told you are making it up or blamed it is your fault by telling them how you feel.

It can also be very hard to put your feelings into words. However, many young people in same situation feel sense of relief at being understood once they have talked about it. Letting others know about how you feel is important for getting the right help and support.

When should I get more help?

Many young people will get better on their own with support and understanding. If the depression is dragging on and causing serious difficulties, it's important to seek treatment.

Sometimes when you are feeling low, you may think or try to use drugs or alcohol to forget your feelings.

You may see no hope and feel like running away from it all. Doing this only makes the situation worse. When this happens it is important that you let others know and get help.

Where can I get help?

Your GP, or sometimes school nurse, will be able to advise you about what help is available and to arrange a referral to the local child and adolescent mental health service (CAMHS).

They will see you and your family and discuss what is the right treatment for you.

When the depression is not very bad, which means you are still able to do your daily activities like going to school, you may find psychological therapies also called talking therapies helpful.

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is one of these which is effective for treating depression.

Other talking therapies which can be helpful. These can be family therapy and interpersonal therapy, both of which may be available from your CAMHS service.

When your depression is severe and has been going on for long time, you may find it difficult to even talk about it. In this situation, medications can help to lift your mood.

Medications called 'antidepressants' are usually used for this condition. They need to be prescribed by specialist child and adolescent psychiatrists after a careful assessment. If you are given medication, you may need physical health check-up beforehand, and then you will need regular check-ups once you have started on the medication.

Medications are usually given for few months and sometimes may need to be taken for a longer time. It is important that if you are prescribed medication that you take it the way it has been prescribed for you ( i.e the right dose and timing).
Remember you are not alone - depression is a common problem and can be overcome.

"I was 15. They took me to see the doctor because they thought I was a bit down and I had started cutting.

I hadn't noticed much, cutting made me feel better and I just felt they were having a bit of a go really. It was only when I started to talk more, that I started to realise how much I had changed, I used to be happy, not all the time, but I couldn't now - not like I used to.

I was falling out with my teachers - they said I wasn't getting on with work and it made me cross.

I was trying but I just couldn't get on with it not like I did in year 8 and 9. The doctor said it could be my concentration. I hadn't thought of that I just thought I was thick.

Then when he asked about other things, I started to see, I couldn't sleep properly and didn't feel like going out to play football anymore.

I said it was just boring, but as I started to feel better, I did play again and I think saying it was boring was all part of my depression.

That was the same with my family, I mean you don't get on all time do you and they are still a pain sometimes now, but when I was depressed it was like we were always arguing, I just couldn't talk to them and they just wound me up.

It wasn't till they talked to me and things started to change, that was when I looked back and realised how depressed I was."

Campaign against living miserable - A campaign and charity targeting young men with a helpline, magazine and online community, but CALM listens to anyone who needs help or support.

ChildLine - Provides a free and confidential telephone service for children. Helpline: 0800 1111.

Epic friends - Mental health problems are common. This website is all about helping you to help your friends who might be struggling emotionally.

YoungMinds - Provides information and advice on child mental health issues. YoungMinds have also developed HeadMeds which gives young people in England general information about medication. HeadMeds does not give you medical advice. Please talk to your Doctor or anyone else who is supporting you about your own situation because everyone is different.

Rethink Mental Illness - Mental health charity helping people with mental health problems and have a section for young people.

Further help

Changing Minds: Mental Health: What it is, What to do, Where to go?: This CD-ROM is designed for 13-17 years. It includes a wide range of resources - audio, visual, video and written materials - and a wealth of reference for further information and help, including a section on depression.

About this information

This information reflects the best available evidence at the time of writing. This mental health information for young people was written in 2020.
© November 2020 Royal College of Psychiatrists

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Depression in children and young people - for young people| Royal College of Psychiatrists

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Feeling sad is a normal reaction to experiences that are stressful or upsetting. However, when these feelings go on and on, take over your usual self and interfere with your whole life, it can become an illness. This illness is called 'depression'.

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It's important to notice when your mental wellbeing may be slipping, so that you can take action to boost it.

Here are some questions that you might find helpful to ask yourself if you think that you are experiencing lower mental wellbeing. This is not an exhaustive list of things that you may notice when your mental wellbeing is starting to drop; don't treat it as a checklist where you have to notice a certain number to take action. It's worth taking action as soon as you notice one of these signs.

University can be a busy time, which can make it harder for you to take the time to look after your mental wellbeing. When you're busy, stresses can mount up and really take their toll - so it's important to take the time to prioritise your own mental wellbeing. ​If you have:
Taking the time to look after your mental wellbeing can be a challenge. A powerful way to take positive steps is to write down your intention in a clear, time-specific goal.
Clear, time-specified goals enable us to succeed, as goals can be achieved. Even when goals aren't achieved, this can be used to think specifically about what was difficult and how to adjust these goals to make it easier to try again.

Try choosing one way to prioritise your mental wellbeing this week. It is best to anchor the intention to a known time or other commitment e.g. 'after the biology lecture on Tuesday'. Use the phrase "I will do this specific action on this day at this time." and see how it goes!

Sometimes, the thought of doing anything is just too much. If this describes your situation, don't punish yourself. The great thing about taking small steps is that it doesn't matter how small your goal is. You decide what you want to achieve and what is realistic for you to achieve. That way, the completion of any task - no matter how simple it may seem - is recognised as the achievement that it is.

You may find it useful to record how you felt during/after doing things to support your mental wellbeing in pictures or a journal. Doing this means that you can look back when you next feel low and remind yourself of how the activity helped you.

If you find yourself experiencing mental health difficulties which are preventing you from doing the things you want to do, seek help - whether through friends, family, a doctor, or your university support services.

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​We all have mental health and our mental wellbeing can fluctuate day-to-day . When you're not feeling great, it can feel harder to take action to benefit your wellbeing. However there are small...

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Working towards exams can creating feelings of worry and being under pressure, especially at university where you're aiming for a degree. However there are a range of things that you can do to help deal with the stress that you might be feeling...

Find out more about what we mean by the term stress and stress response here.

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How do you know when you're depressed? Discover the signs of depression and what to do if you're low in mood.

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HOPELINEUK advisers want to work with you to understand why these thoughts of suicide might be present. They also want to provide you with a safe space to talk through anything happening in your life that could be impacting on your or anyone else's ability to stay safe.

For children and young people under the age of 35 who are experiencing thoughts of suicide

For anyone concerned that a young person could be thinking about suicide

Young People

Our advisers are all trained to help you focus on staying safe from suicide. Their training enables them to provide advice and support that may help you to move forward and stay alive.

Concerned Others

If you are concerned that a young person is feeling suicidal, advisers can support you to start a conversation about suicide and explore options of how best to support them.

Contact HOPELINEUK

If you are having thoughts of suicide or are concerned for a young person who might be you can contact HOPELINEUK for confidential support and practical advice.

Opening hours:

9am - midnight every day of the year (Weekends and Bank Holidays included)

Our Suicide Prevention Advisers are ready to support you.

Who can PAPYRUS HOPELINEUK help?

Young people, children, family, parents, siblings, partners, carers, grandparents

Concerned friends: at work, in school, college, university

GPs, Nurses, teachers, school nurses, A&E staff, pastoral staff

Mental health professionals: CAMHS staff, CPNs, Psychiatrists

Education staff: teachers, lecturers, learning mentors, education social workers

Police, ambulance staff, prison staff, drug and alcohol services, probation workers

Feedback from HOPELINEUK users

"I've just searched online to find the service, this is the best advice I've had, and I'm talking about doctors and health professionals. Do you know nobody has just asked me to talk to him; it's really strange when you think about it - so thank you."

"Thank you for helping me - no-one has ever helped me this much before."

"The people at HOPELINEUK are great - I feel understood."

Further Help and Advice

This page is for information on the PAPYRUS HOPELINEUK service - visit our HOPELINEUK FAQ section for more information about using the service. For further help and advice, including a full list of resources, visit our Help and Advice Page.

PDFs
Confidentiality Policy Remit of service policy

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HOPELINEUK | Papyrus UK | Suicide Prevention Charity

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HOPELINEUK advisers want to work with you to understand why these thoughts of suicide might be present. They also want to provide you with a safe space to talk through anything happening in your life that could be impacting on your or anyone else's ability to stay safe.

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Sending a message is free, and we'll usually reply within a day. Writing to a counsellor can give you the space to say what you want and to ask questions.

You can say as much or as little as you feel able to. If you're not sure what to write, you could start by including:

A little about yourself, like your name and how old you are

What's been happening or what's on your mind, and how it makes you feel

Any questions you might have, and what you'd like to happen in the future

A title that says what you'd like to talk about

You don't need to write a lot if you don't want to, but it can help to include all the information the counsellor might need to know - if a counsellor needs to ask for more information, it can take longer to get help.

Writing an email can help you to get out your feelings, don't forget you can use your mood journal to record how you're feeling any time.

Call us on 0800 1111. Calls are free from landlines and mobiles in the UK. And they won't show up on your phone bill. Even if you don't have credit on your mobile phone you can still call us for free.

Calls are not recorded and our number won't show up on any phone bills. Counsellors write some notes about what you tell them. Childline is confidential, that means we'll only tell someone else if:

you ask us to

we believe your life or someone else's life is in danger

you're being hurt by someone in a position of trust who is able to hurt other children like a teacher, religious leader, sports coach, police officer or doctor

you tell us that you're seriously hurting another person

you tell us about another child who's being hurt and is not able to tell someone or understand what is happening to them

we're told we have to by law, for example for a court case.

Live in the Channel Islands?
Calls may be chargeable from mobiles and the number will appear on your mobile bill. To call us free from the Channel Islands, try using a landline or phone box. Or contact a counsellor online using 1-2-1 counsellor chat.

Calling from abroad?
If you go abroad and need to contact Childline, you might be charged. But you can still get support and advice from our website.

Calling from Guernsey?
If you're calling from Guernsey and Airtel is your mobile phone provider, you'll need to dial 0044800 1111 to speak to a counsellor.

Lots of young people have told us that talking on the phone feels too scary, or that they're worried about being overheard.

Talking on the phone can help in lots of ways, and the more you do it the easier it can feel. If you want to call but you're struggling, if can help to:

Try dialling the number but not saying anything
This can help you to see what calling is like. You don't have to say anything if you don't want to, or you could talk about something that interests you.

Ask questions
When you get through to Childline, you can ask as much as you want about how we work.

Find the best place to talk
Find somewhere quiet where you can focus if you can.

Take your time
Childline counsellors understand that it's not easy to talk, and they can help you to feel more confident. Remember, if you can't talk on the phone right now, you can start by using the 1-2-1 chats or sending an email using your Childline account.

Any time you're ready, you can call us on 0800 1111.

It can take longer to get through at night, but there are things you can do while you're waiting to get the best from your chat:

Write down what you'd like to talk about
Writing down or practicing what you want to say can make it easier when you get through; it can also help you to feel better. If you've written down what you want to say but can't wait, try sending it in an email to us, a counsellor will reply as soon as they can.

Think about what you want from your 1-2-1 chat
For example, would you like to feel differently, or get some tips on how to cope? Thinking about what you want from your chat can help your counsellor support you. But it's always okay if you're not sure what you want.

Choose one thing to focus on
When you've got lots going on it can be difficult talking about it all, focusing on one thing can help you get the most out of your chat.

There are lots of things you can do to cope while you're waiting for a counsellor. Try distracting yourself by playing a game or getting support on the message boards.

If you don't feel able to wait for a counsellor, it can help to talk to an adult you trust.

If you contact us, we'd want to make sure you're safe. So we might ask you where you are and who you're with, as well as how you're feeling. This can help us understand your situation.

We might feel that you're unsafe if you're:

thinking about running away tonight

out and not wanting to go home

out alone late at night with no shelter, food or drink

having thoughts or urges to self-harm or feeling suicidal

harming yourself

taking or are thinking about taking drugs or a lot of alcohol

at risk of being abused overnight

out with a gang, or at risk of being forced to commit a crime or getting hurt.

We want to support you and help you find ways to cope. And we'd always try to let you know if we need to get help to you in an emergency.

If you're worried or need support at night, you could try asking an adult you trust for help.

When you're feeling stressed or upset it can be difficult to know what to do. But there are ways to feel more relaxed while you're waiting to get through to a counsellor.

You can:

sign into your locker to get your feelings out with our mood journal

express how you feel using the Art box

listen to soothing music or make a playlist you enjoy

try our balloon game and watch your worries float away

focus on your breathing to manage your anxiety. Take deep, slow breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth.

Contact Childline with SignVideo
SignVideo lets you contact a counsellor through a BSL interpreter. You can use it between Monday - Friday, 8am - 8pm and on Saturdays, 8am - 1pm.

How to use SignVideo:

open SignVideo and click "allow webcam"

when you're connected, an interpreter will appear on your screen

you can chat to the interpreter in BSL

they'll translate your conversation to the counsellor.

To be able to see YouTube videos, we have to ask you to accept Targeting Cookies within your Cookie Settings

Contacting us in Welsh / Childline ar gyfer pobl ifanc sy'n siarad Cymraeg
We don't offer a full Welsh speaking counselling service. But we do have some Welsh speaking counsellors. If you contact us (by phone or online) and let us know you'd like to talk to someone in Welsh we can arrange a time for you to speak to a Welsh speaking counsellor.

Childline is a free number, so anyone can call us at any time. Every young person who contacts us is important and we do our best to answer every call as quickly as possible.

A small number of people, often adults, call us for reasons other than getting help or support. We try to stop these calls and help them get support from other places. But sometimes these callers still try to phone Childline again and again. Sometimes so much that it can stop young people getting through.

Because of this we put a limit on the number of times someone can call us from the same phone number in a single day. This is 10 calls in a 24 hour period.

If you do call us more than 10 times in a 24 hour period you'll hear a message telling you that you can't call for another 24 hours.

Even if this has happened you can still get support from our info and advice pages and you can contact using the 1-2-1 counsellor chats or by emailing.

We do our best to answer every call as soon as possible. Sometimes having to wait to get through to a counsellor can be difficult. But it's best to stay on the line if you can. Hanging up and calling back means you'll go to the back of the queue.

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Call us free on 0800 1111 or find out how to get in touch online. Whatever your worry, we're here for you.

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For young people / I pobl ifanc

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For young people/ I pobl ifanc

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For young people/ I pobl ifanc

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For young people/ I pobl ifanc

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Five tips for young people feeling anxious

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We all feel anxious from time to time when facing situations that are uncertain, scary, or challenging. Anxiety is a very natural human emotion, designed to keep us safe from potential threats. Anxiety can often feel like a sense of uneasiness or worry.

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For young people/ I pobl ifanc

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Emotional Wellbeing Service - Cardiff & the Vale of Glamorgan

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Welcome to the Emotional Wellbeing Service

Here you will be able to find everything you need to know about our service. Be sure to take a look at some of the other sections we have too, this will help you to understand how we can support you and hopefully find what you are looking for.

Here at the Emotional Wellbeing Service (EWS), we provide early-intervention for emotional wellbeing in children and young people across Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan.

Change Grow Live won the contract for the Emotional wellbeing Service in 2016. We are funded jointly by University Health Board (UHB) and Area planning Board (APB).

How do we do this?

By utilising therapeutic groups and one-to-one support, the EWS promotes positive wellbeing and tools that strengthen emotional resilience and regulation, including support for young people engaging in risk-taking behaviours. So if you are feeling sad, lonely, depressed or feel you lack confidence and self-esteem, we can help you by offering support with;

The Emotional Wellbeing Service is the first point of contact for a young person wanting to develop coping strategies and learn new ways to be able to feel better and make positive changes.

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Welcome to the Emotional Wellbeing Service Here you will be able to find everything you need to know about our service. Be sure to take a look at some of the other sections we have too, this will help you to understand how we can support you and hopefully find what you are looking for.

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For young people/ I pobl ifanc

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This hub has been created by young people for young people, it provides information and links to services in relation to your emotional health and well-being.

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Tell us more

What do you want to tell us about?

Note:

Please don't include personal details like your name or email address. If you do, data protection law means we'll have to delete your comments.

Unfortunately we can't reply to this. If you want a response from us, see our Contact us page.

If you are in crisis right now and want to talk to someone urgently then you could call Samaritans on 116 123 (freephone). Our pages on crisis services have more options.

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Tell us more What do you want to tell us about? Note: Please don't include personal details like your name or email address. If you do, data protection law means we'll have to delete your comments. Unfortunately we can't reply to this. If you want a response from us, see our Contact us page.

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For young people and parents/ I pobl ifanc a rhienu

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CYPF - Emotional Wellbeing & Mental Health

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Acute Oncology Service Acute Response Team Adult Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD) Service Advanced Practioners All Wales Adult Cystic Fibrosis Centre All Wales Familial Hypercholesterolaemia Service Allied Healthcare Professionals Anaesthetics Audiology Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Blood Borne Virus Service Breast Centre Cardiac Rehabilitation Cardiff and Vale of Glamorgan Integrated Health and Social Care Partnership CHfW - Children's Hospital for Wales Children, Young People & Family Health Services Clinical Gerentology Clinical Neuropsychology Community Dental Service Community Neurological Rehabilitation Services

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For young people/ I pobl ifanc

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Professional help

friendly staff

Need to talk? Whatever's on your mind, we can help. Even if you just need someone who understands or want advice for a friend.

The teams we work with help lots of people like teenagers in schools, parents of young children and mums with new born babies.

Health professionals

start messaging

Set-up a messaging service and support more people, more easily with the resources you already have.

You'll start conversations earlier, stop problems escalating and make connections where it's hard to reach.

I thought it would be awkward or embarrassing but it's actually not. Thanks for helping. ANONYMOUS USER

Happy with the quick and professional response and that my worries are being addressed and taken seriously. YOUNG PERSON, YEAR 10

I was struggling so much today but having someone at the end of a text that's willing to help is great. FIRST TIME PARENT

hello

I love being part of this service!
It's a valuable addition. STAFF FEEDBACK

hello

It's a great tool to provide a service to our client group in an accessible way. STAFF FEEDBACK

hello

We are excited to have this opportunity to engage with the young people in our area. STAFF FEEDBACK

hello

Parents are enjoying having this as an additional way to access advice. STAFF FEEDBACK

hello

We've had contacts from young people that would not have contacted us before. STAFF FEEDBACK

hello

Young people can 'park' a question, even out-of-hours, knowing it will be responded to appropriately. STAFF FEEDBACK

Confidential

and anonymous

It can be easier to say something difficult in a discrete message. Your conversation will be confidential, if a health professional is very concerned you're in danger, they may involve other services to help keep you safe.

Trusted

safe and secure

We work with teams across the UK so you will get help from health professionals near you. Staff share secure electronic records of conversations so you never have to repeat yourself and all teams follow strict confidentiality rules.

Convenient

helping everyone

Health professionals say setting-up a messaging service is a safe and manageable way for small teams to speak directly with lots of people. Messaging helps provide support at a time that suits everyone.

Need to talk?

how it works

We'll confirm receipt of your message immediately then you'll speak to a health professional who will listen, ask questions and support you. You only have to share what you feel comfortable with and you can ask questions too.

Most teams reply during normal office hours. If you message out-of-hours they'll reply when they're next in. You should always hear back from someone within 24 working hours at most.

If you need help in the meantime contact your doctor, visit a NHS walk-in centre or call NHS 111. If it is an emergency, dial 999 or visit A&E.

Your network provider will charge your usual rate for messages you send.

Start a chat

Health teams

set-up a service

We've been helping clinical teams set-up healthcare messaging services since 2012. As an NHS team we understand how to support you all the way. We will help you take the quickest route to setting-up a safe, secure and successful service so you can stay focused on providing high quality care.

"You have a great enthusiastic team of professional, experienced, supportive people"Zoe Warren, Professional Lead, School Nursing, Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust

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Need to talk? Whatever's on your mind, we can help. Even if you just need someone who understands or want advice for a friend. The teams we work with help lots of people like teenagers in schools, parents of young children and mums with new born babies.

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For young people/ I pobl ifanc

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Resources for professionals/ Adnoddau I gweithwyr proffesiynol

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For professionals/ I gweithwyr proffesiynol

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Resources for professionals/ Adnoddau I gweithwyr proffesiynol

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Resources for professionals/ Adnoddau I gweithwyr proffesiynol

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Resources for professionals/ Adnoddau I gweithwyr proffesiynol

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Resources for professionals/ Adnoddau I gweithwyr proffesiynol

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For parents and carers / i rhieni a gofalwyr

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How to support a child with depression or anxiety

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Recognise the signs of anxiety and depression in children and get advice on how you can best support a child who needs your help. How to support a child with childhood depression or anxiety.

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Resources for professionals/ Adnoddau I gweithwyr proffesiynol

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Resources for professionals/ Adnoddau I gweithwyr proffesiynol

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Helping Children Cope with Traumatic Events - HelpGuide.org

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Traumatic events such as coronavirus, natural disasters, accidents, or violence can be overwhelmingly stressful for children. These tips can help your child recover.

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For young people, parents and carers / I pobl ifanc, rhieni a gofalwyr

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For young people / I pobl ifanc

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For young people / I pobl ifanc

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For young people / I pobl ifanc

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For young people / I pobl ifanc

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Support for young people / cefnogaeth i pobl ifanc

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Struggling with an eating disorder? Caring for someone who is? Beat is here to support you.

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For young people / I pobl ifanc

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Information sheet for workers and individuals who are concerned about self-harm
Self-harm: the facts
Fact:
People self-harm in different ways. Some cut their arms or legs, others bang or bruise their bodies. Self-harm also includes burning, scratching, hair-pulling, scrubbing, or anything that causes injury to the body. Some people take tablets, perhaps not a big overdose, but enough to blot things out for a while. Some people hurt themselves just once or twice. Other people use self-harm to cope over a long time. They might hurt themselves quite often during a bad patch.

Fact:
Self-harm isn't necessarily about suicide. Sometimes people harm themselves because they want to die. But often it's more about staying alive. People may hurt themselves to help them get through a bad time. It's a way to cope.

Fact:
It's not 'just attention-seeking'. People self-harm because they are in pain and trying to cope. They could also be trying to show that something is wrong. They need to be taken seriously.

Fact:
It doesn't mean you're off your head. All sorts of people self-harm. Even people in high-powered jobs. It's a sign that something is bothering and upsetting you, not that you are mad. You may not have met anyone else who self-harms and may even think you are the only one who does it. There's a lot of secrecy about self-harm. But many thousands of people cope in this way for a while.

Fact:
Other things can be 'self-harm' too. Things like starving, overeating, drinking too much, risk-taking, smoking and many others are also types of 'self-harm'. Some coping methods (like burying yourself in work) may be more acceptable, but can still be harmful.

Fact:
People do stop self-harming. Many people stop self-harming - when they're ready. They sort their problems out and find other ways of dealing with their feelings. It might take a long time and they might need help. But things can get better.

Fact:
You can get help. If you are worried about self-harm you can get help. Self-harm is often a way of coping with painful experiences. These might include being abused or neglected, losing someone important to you, being bullied, harassed or assaulted, or being very lonely and isolated. It helps to tell someone supportive about painful things that have happened to you and the ways these have made you feel.

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Fact sheet: self harm - Basement Project

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Self-harm: the facts Fact: People self-harm in different ways. Some cut their arms or legs, others bang or bruise their bodies. Self-harm also includes burning, scratching, hair-pulling, scrubbing, or anything that causes injury to the body. Some people take tablets, perhaps not a big overdose, but enough to blot things out for a while.

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For young people / I pobl ifanc

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Support service for young people / gwasanaethau ar gael i pobl ifanc

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Welcome to the Amber Project Website

The Amber Project exists to support any young person (aged 14-25) in Cardiff and the surrounding areas who has experience of self-harm.

Please feel free to look around, and if you have any questions or think that we might be able to help, please do contact us. We are available Monday - Friday, 9:30-5:30. Unfortunately the pandemic has had a huge impact on our services, but we are now able to take new referrals and are offering a range of support.

~~~~~*~~~~~~*~~~~~~*~~~~~

Panto Trailer

The Amber Project is delighted to release the first trailer for our 2021 pantomime:
Robyn Hood, The Legend of Sherwood.

(This project was supported by Glamorgan Voluntary Services through the COVID-19 High Risk Groups Charity and Voluntary Group Small Grant Scheme.)

~~~~~*~~~~~~*~~~~~~*~~~~~

Covid-19 & Amber

As Wales remains at Level 4 we are continuing to work remotely for the time being. We are still taking referrals but initial meetings will not be face to face. Please be patient if you have been referred or made a referral to the project and haven't heard from us.

*~~~~~~*~~~~~~*~~~~~

Accessing Amber

If you currently access the project or have done in the past and you need additional support please do get in touch.

Our usual working hours are:

Caryl and Stacey 9:00-5:00;

Caryl: 07905 905 437
Stacey: 07450 069 022

Beth Monday-Thursday;

Beth: 07817 027 123

Clara (Student) : 9:00 -1130 Monday
10:00-3:00 Tuesday and Thursdays

Clara: 07593700049

If you need support while the project is closed, please contact either your GP Out of Hours Service or:

Childline: 0800 1111

Samaritans: 116123

Papyrus hopelineuk: 0800 068 4141 (10:00am -10pm weekdays, 2:00 - 10pm weekends and bank holidays).

The well being of the children and young people who access 'Amber' is paramount, and we ask
that you bear with us at this difficult time.

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The Amber Project exists to support any young person (aged 14-25) in Cardiff and the surrounding areas who has experience of self-harm. Please feel free to look around, and if you have any questions or think that we might be able to help, please do contact us.

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For young people / I pobl ifanc

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For young people / I pobl ifanc

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Support services for young people / gwasanaethau ar gael i pobl ifanc

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Information, guidance, therapeutic tools & options for young people. It gives support & techniques to help deal with negative thoughts & feelings associated with self-harm & reassures young people that they are not alone.

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Support services for young people / gwasanaethau ar gael i pobl ifanc

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This hub has been created by young people for young people, it provides information and links to services in relation to your emotional health and well-being.

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Support services for young people / gwasanaethau ar gael i pobl ifanc

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This hub has been created by young people for young people, it provides information and links to services in relation to your emotional health and well-being.

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Support services for young people / gwasanaethau ar gael i pobl ifanc

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This hub has been created by young people for young people, it provides information and links to services in relation to your emotional health and well-being.

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Support services for young people / gwasanaethau ar gael i pobl ifanc

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This hub has been created by young people for young people, it provides information and links to services in relation to your emotional health and well-being.

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For young people / i pobl ifanc

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Welcome. In this section we will offer playlists for specific challenges in mental health such as depression, trauma, coping with bereavement or abuse, or difficulties in focus and concentration. For the some of these issues we have a solid foundation of scientific evidence for the benefits of music. For others we are inviting those who face these challenges to help us build suitable playlists.

Please select an area, then click on any playlist to begin.

The playlists are targeted towards the needs of certain groups of people but will be of interest to all listeners.

If you would like to opt in to the wellbeing diary please fill it in here ⓘ before listening, and then select the option to return to it once the playlist is complete.
Don't show again

If you are filling in the wellbeing diary and would like to complete it, please fill it in here ⓘ.

Now that the playlist has ended, you may:

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Playlists for specific issues - Recovery College Online

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Welcome. In this section we will offer playlists for specific challenges in mental health such as depression, trauma, coping with bereavement or abuse, or difficulties in focus and concentration. For the some of these issues we have a solid foundation of scientific evidence for the benefits of music.

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For parents and carers / i rhieni a gofalwyr

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Going through different emotions is part of life. We all feel sad or low sometimes, and this can be a natural and appropriate response to what's happening around us. Often, the passing of time and support from people we're close to can help things feel better again.

When a young person is feeling depressed, sadness and low feelings do not change or go away with time. These feelings can become overwhelming and stop them from doing or enjoying things they normally would.

Knowing that your child is experiencing this can be incredibly worrying or distressing as a parent. Remember that lots of young people go through depression, it's possible for your child to come out the other side and feel okay again, and there are places where you and your child can find support.

What are the symptoms of depression?

While every young person is different and will express their feelings differently, your child may be feeling depressed if they are:

withdrawing, or avoiding friends or social situations

finding it hard to concentrate, or losing interest in schoolwork

not wanting to do things they previously enjoyed

feeling irritable or angry

feeling tearful, miserable, lonely or hopeless

feeling empty or numb

being very self-critical

sleeping more or less than normal

eating more or less than normal

feeling tired or not having any energy

wanting to self-harm

How can I help my child?

1. Try to open up a conversation about what's going on. You might start by letting them know that you've noticed they don't seem very happy at the moment, voicing your concerns in a caring and non-judgmental way. You can find more tips on starting a conversation with your child here.

2. Listen and provide emotional support. Try not to ask too many questions, come up with quick solutions or gloss over their sadness. Empathise with how they're feeling - letting them know they can talk to you as often and for as long as they need to.

3. Try again another day if they don't want to talk. Finding it difficult to talk or reach out is often a part of feeling low or depressed - and it can be especially difficult for young people to talk about these kinds of feelings. Let them know you're there when they're ready to talk.

4. Think together about whether there's anything in particular that's making them feel this way. This could include a problem with a friendship or family relationship, feeling bullied or left-out at school, feeling overwhelmed by school work, struggling with a change such as divorce or separation in the family, or a combination of things. Are there changes that could be made at home or school that would make things easier?

5. If they don't feel able to talk to you, encourage them to speak to someone else - while reassuring them that you'll still be there. Let them know about the phone, webchat, email and text support they can access from the services listed at the end of this guide.

6. Support them to keep routines, activities and connections with other people going as much as possible. Make opportunities for seeing friends and family, and encourage them to do the things they enjoy - whether that's exercising, listening to music, doing something creative like colouring or drawing, watching a favourite film, reading a favourite book or going for a walk with you.

7. Help them to do the daily things that support our wellbeing. This includes getting up at a regular time, eating regular meals, doing exercise, drinking water, spending quality time with loved ones and getting enough sleep.

8. Reassure them. Let them know you love them, these feelings won't last forever, and that you can find support to help things feel better.

9. Don't ignore worrying signs, hoping they'll go away. Trust your gut feeling - you know when something's just not right.

10. Seek professional help if you're worried about your child's mental health. Some children and young people will need professional and specialist help to feel better. They may benefit from a specific diagnosis or a treatment such as talking therapy. You can find more information about this below.

Young people's advice for others going through this:

Speak to your doctor or a trusted adult about how you're feeling.

Don't be afraid to cry, especially if you're male - it helps to release emotions and you'll feel better afterwards.

I've found that identifying behaviours that aren't beneficial to you, like endlessly scrolling through Instagram before bed and sleeping late, can be really helpful. It's hard to force good habits, but it can do wonders for your overall mood.

Try to keep going outside, even if it's just a short walk, it can really help your mood to lift.

Find a distraction technique - we all have different ones; it could be jogging, music, art, reading etc.

Realise that how you're feeling won't last forever and there's always something to look forward to.

Where can I find professional help?

GP and Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS)
Speaking to your GP is usually the first step to accessing mental health services. Together you can discuss whether referral to CAMHS, an assessment by a mental health specialist or referral for another kind of support is needed. You can speak to your GP with or without your child.

The type of support or treatment offered will depend on your child's age and what they are experiencing. The most common type of talking therapy offered by the NHS is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which can help your child to understand their thoughts and feelings and to find practical strategies to help them cope.
Counselling and therapy
Counsellors and therapists can provide emotional support and help your child to make sense of, and find ways to cope with, their feelings.

You can find local counselling and therapy services by:

Speaking to your GP

Asking your child's school whether they provide a free or subsidised counselling service, and whether they can make a referral for your child

Searching online for free counselling services in your area, and/or using the Youth Access directory to do this

Finding a private counsellor, therapist or family therapist using the directories listed in our guide

Your child's school
If your child is struggling, it can help to be open with the school about what's going on and what support your child needs. Depending on their age, it may be important to make sure your child feels some control over the information that's shared about them - for example by discussing with them who they would feel comfortable for you to speak to.

Alongside counselling, schools can often provide support from the pastoral team, a member of staff who your child can chat to when they need to, mentoring, peer buddying and clubs and activities.

If your child is struggling to go to school, you can also discuss whether a more flexible timetable or other strategies would help.

Depression and suicidal thoughts

Some young people who are depressed can think about, speak of or attempt suicide. If you are worried about this, seek urgent professional advice from your GP or the mental health professionals supporting your child. If needed, you can ask for an on-the-day appointment with your GP, and you can speak to them yourself if your child does not want to go to an appointment.

If your child experiences a mental health crisis, seek urgent professional support:

If you are worried that your child is at immediate risk of harm or cannot keep themselves safe, or they have already been injured, call 999 or take them to A&E.

If the situation is not life threatening and a health professional such as a GP has already given you a crisis number to call in this situation, call this number.

Or, if your child is already under the care of CAMHS or another mental health team and they have a crisis plan that states who to contact in this situation, follow this plan.

You can also call your local NHS mental health helpline or 111 anytime for urgent advice about what to do next.

If you need advice around supporting and responding to your child when they're experiencing suicidal thoughts, you can find this on the Prevention of Young Suicide (PAPYRUS) website. You can also contact their HOPELINE to speak to an advisor over phone or email.

More information and advice

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Supporting Your Child With Depression and Low Mood

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Going through different emotions is part of life. We all feel sad or low sometimes, and this can be a natural and appropriate response to what's happening around us. Often, the passing of time and support from people we're close to can help things feel better again.

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For everyone / I bawb

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Calm Harm is a free app to help teenagers manage the urge to self-harm. Available on Google Play & App Store.

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Making Sense of Your Moods

Catch It is a joint project between the Universities of Liverpool and Manchester, to help users better understand their moods through use of an ongoing diary.

The app was designed to illustrate some of the key principles of psychological approaches to mental health and well-being, and specifically Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

What's in the App?

Step by step mood tracker

Mood diary

Helping me with depression

"Whenever I'm emotionally charged, the phrasing and guidance of the questions really helps to calm me down. And while sometimes my depression just manifests as emptiness, its more often anger. So this is good for getting me into the habit of not using the flight/fight response."

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Catch It is a joint project between the Universities of Liverpool and Manchester, to help users better understand their moods through use of an ongoing diary. The app was designed to illustrate some of the key principles of psychological approaches to mental health and well-being, and specifically Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

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Boost your EQ and Supercharge your Personal Development Today! Conquer Anxiety with eQuoo, your Evidence-Based Game that combines the best of mental health.

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"MeeToo really turned my life around, no exaggeration! 2020 had been a really crap year for me, then my social worker and crisis worker introduced me to MeeToo. The atmosphere of this community is just amazing! The members are so sweet and the advice is really helpful. The anonymous feature is really helpful too, everything stays private and makes it much more confidentiality. Thank you MeeToo!"

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My Possible Self is the mental health app using clinically certified content from Priory Healthcare to help reduce anxiety, stress and low mood.

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Part 1 / Rhan 1

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How to be happy (part 1) / Sut I bod yn hapus (rhan 1)

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Part 2 / Rhan 2

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How to be happy (part 2) / Sut I bod yn hapus (rhan 2)

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New Pathways Young Persons' Counselling

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New Pathway's Children's & Young Person's Project has a dedicated team of Counsellors who work with clients who are under the age of 18. All of the Counsellors working on this project are very experienced and have specific qualifications in counselling children and young people, using a range of therapies including art, music and play therapies.

Our Children's & Young Person's Project provides generic counselling, which means that people can talk about anything that is troubling them. Some of the things that people talk to our Counsellors about include:

A recent incident or assault that has left you feeling shocked or frightened.

Someone who may have harmed or hurt you in the past.

Anyone who may be hurting you now.

Self-confidence

Problems with relationships

Being bullied or being a bully

Parents separation

Worrying about school/college work or exams

Feeling alone and not understood

Sexual issues

Feeling angry and getting into trouble

Someone you care about has died

Harming yourself

Generally feeling unhappy

Taking drugs

Wanting to run away

Not liking the way you look

Suicidal thoughts

There may be other reasons for wanting to talk to a Counsellor, which may not be on this list, so whatever the reason we are here to listen.

"The whole family is happier now that our daughter is happier. We feel that she has moved forward and we've got a happy little girl again. Before we came to New Pathways we were all desperate to help her but we didn't know how."
Mother of a 10 year old counselling client
We also provide a range of other services for Children and Young People including Group Therapy, Advocacy & Support, Family Therapy and Themed Workshops. For more information on these services please click on the link to our Children's and Young Person's Project.

For more information on how to refer yourself or someone else to our Children's and Young Person's Counselling Service please contact our head office on 01685 379310 or download a r eferral form and return it by email to enquiries@newpathways.org.uk or by post to our head office: Willow House, 11 Church Street, Merthyr Tydfil CF47 0BW.

Funded by:

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New Pathway's Children's & Young Person's Project has a dedicated team of Counsellors who work with clients who are under the age of 18. All of the Counsellors working on this project are very experienced and have specific qualifications in counselling children and young people, using a range of therapies including art, music and play therapies.

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Acute Oncology Service Acute Response Team Adult Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD) Service Advanced Practioners All Wales Adult Cystic Fibrosis Centre All Wales Familial Hypercholesterolaemia Service Allied Healthcare Professionals Artificial Limb and Appliance Service Audiology Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Bereavement Services Blood Borne Virus Service Breast Centre Cardiac Rehabilitation Cardiff and Vale APB Cardiff and Vale of Glamorgan Integrated Health and Social Care Partnership CHfW - Children's Hospital for Wales Children, Young People & Family Health Services Clinical Gerentology Clinical Neuropsychology

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Acute Oncology Service Acute Response Team Adult Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD) Service Advanced Practioners All Wales Adult Cystic Fibrosis Centre All Wales Familial Hypercholesterolaemia Service Allied Healthcare Professionals Artificial Limb and Appliance Service Audiology Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Bereavement Services Blood Borne Virus Service Breast Centre Cardiac Rehabilitation Cardiff and Vale APB Cardiff and Vale of Glamorgan Integrated Health and Social Care Partnership CHfW - Children's Hospital for Wales Children, Young People & Family Health Services Clinical Gerentology Clinical Neuropsychology

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For young people / I pobl ifanc