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Helping your child with anger and aggression

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It's normal to feel strong, negative emotions when faced with aggression, but try to avoid fighting fire with fire. Think about what message your words and body language are sending and focus as much as you can on modelling calm behaviour.

Tips for keeping calm

Taking a deep breath and counting to ten can help you to avoid saying or doing something you might regret. Your heart rate will slow and you'll begin to feel calmer.

Some people find that repeating things like 'Just try to relax' or 'It's going to be okay', to themselves, helps them to calm down and refocus.

Gentle stretching exercises like neck and shoulder rolls can also help.

Remind yourself that your feelings are towards the situation and not the child.

Some things to avoid

As much as you'll want them to calm down, telling people to do so tends to have the opposite effect as it suggests that you think they're overreacting, when what they probably want is to be heard and taken seriously.

Avoid speaking or shouting over them as this will make them feel undermined and is likely to increase their anger,

Finger pointing or closing the space between you and them is likely to be interpreted as aggression and may cause them to retaliate.

You may feel you're in the right, but you need to pick your battles. You can't reason with someone who's being led by strong emotions, and anger is unpredictable and difficult to control. The priority in the heat of the moment is everyone's physical safety.

Tips for staying safe

Put any arguments to one side and focus on de-escalating the situation.

Walk away if you feel it necessary, but try to provide reassurance and let them know that you're giving them space to calm down without shutting them off.

Don't be afraid to call the police if necessary. They have experience of dealing with these types of situations and will focus on a peaceful resolution.

3. Try to be understanding

All behaviour is communication and anger is always a secondary emotion to some kind of distress. Underneath the aggressive behaviour is something else that they're trying to tell you. Try to understand and acknowledge their feelings of anger and don't take it personally, as it's not a reflection on you or your parenting.

4. Move on together

Letting go and forgiving can be hard, and it's quite likely that there'll be some feelings of shame and guilt on both sides. although it's a delicate situation, it's really important to get past it and move on together.

Tips for moving on

You'll both be feeling emotionally drained and hurt, so be patient and allow the reconnecting process to take as long as it takes.

As the adult, you probably need to be the one leading the way towards reconciliation.

Try to prioritise restoring the relationship over apportioning any blame for what happened.

5. Plan ahead

The best way to cope with anger and aggression is to avoid it or to channel it elsewhere, so work together and maybe keep a diary to explore the triggers, responses, the process of calming down and reconnecting. Think also about what acceptable expressions of anger might look like and agree consequences for crossing the line.

Some ways to avoid aggression

Having an outlet for any frustration and anger, such as a punch bag or some kind of physical activity, can help to let off steam in a healthy way.

Learning Nonviolent Response techniques together can help you to get better at communicating peacefully.

Some additional resources that may help
Download a printable version of this advice

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How to de-escalate your child's anger and aggression | ThisMayHelp

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Watch an informative video and read tips for parents on dealing with aggressive behaviour from children. Watch the video.

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Gaming and Online Support for Parents

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1. Try to see the positives

Although young people are spending more and more time online is a concern, they are also learning valuable skills that will serve them in their adult life.

Some positive aspects of video gaming

Video gaming may seem pointless, but it puts the brain to work in a variety of ways that can improve perception, muscle control, memory, and spatial navigation.

Many games are designed like complex puzzles and solving them can help young minds to develop problem-solving skills that will benefit them in the real world.

The video games that people tend to enjoy most are those that are mentally challenging, which can help young people to learn to become more persistent in the pursuit of a goal and learn from mistakes along the way.

2. Moderation is key

As much as they might resist them, young people need boundaries, as they provide a sense of protection from harm but also allow them a degree of independence.

Guidance for setting boundaries on video gaming

Experts struggle to agree on what limits should be set, but most agree that more than four hours without a break can be harmful to both mental and physical health.

Research has shown that the brain operates in cycles, with each cycle lasting around 90-120 minutes. Focusing on one activity for longer than one cycle can cause fatigue and, over the longer term, reduce the brain's productivity. This fits with many experts' recommendation of a daily limit on video gaming of between one and two hours.

Making agreements that include and prioritise other activities such as homework, exercise or helping with household chores can help you to find the right balance.

Signs that their video gaming may be unhealthy or have become an addiction

Playing every day, devoting long periods or staying up through the night to play

Neglecting schoolwork or other activities and responsibilities

Moodiness and / or aggression, particularly with regard to boundaries

3. Prioritise a healthy lifestyle

Establish a routine that allows them a degree of freedom but also places a high priority on healthy living.

Guidance for integrating video gaming into a healthy lifestyle

Establishing a routine of going to bed and waking up at the same time everyday connects us with our natural circadian rhythms, a healthy sleep pattern is the result, ideal for developing brains.

Equally important are daylight and fresh air. Going without them for lengthy periods can have a negative impact on physical and mental health, so try to incorporate exercise and time outside into the daily routine if possible.

Rest periods are also important during video gaming, and a good guide is 5 minutes break for every 45-60mins of play.

4. Be consistent

It's important to include the child in any discussions you have about boundaries, and to make sure that the boundaries are realistic, reasonable and communicated clearly. Hold firm on the boundaries you agree.

Guidance for keeping on top of your child's video gaming

It's important to be clear and explain to the child what the consequences of breaking the agreement will be. Some parents have found that the prospect of a period without the possibility of video gaming acts as an effective deterrent and encourages self-regulation.

If they do break the agreement don't just pull the plug as this might lead to resentment. Try to put your emotions to one side and remind them of the agreement and consequences for breaking it. Be clear about how they have broken it and what you plan to do about it.

It's normal for young people to use different strategies for pushing the boundaries, so try to be consistent and stick to agreements, as failing to do so will communicate that the boundaries aren't important or are flexible.

5. Take an interest

Be aware that there can be predatory or exploitative dangers online. Talk to them about their activity and ask who they are communicating with. Trust your instincts.

Guidance for keeping on top of your child's video gaming

It's important to establish and maintain an open an honest dialogue with your child about their online activity and video gaming from as early an age as possible as it is likely to be harder to do so the older they get.

Try to engage them and get them to teach you about what they are doing. Some games might seem innocent but have a predatory design that encourages gambling type behaviour from an early age, so having an understanding of the mechanics of games can help you to keep on top of it.

If you're concerned about what they're up to, you could move the console/computer into a more public space in the home until boundaries are respected and you're no longer concerned.

For more advice on keeping children safe online, visit our dedicated page

Some additional resources that may help
Download a printable version of this advice

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How to moderate your child's video gaming | ThisMayHelp

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Vernon Kaye shares expert guidance and tips on how to moderate your child's video gaming habits. Watch the video here.

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School Avoidance Support

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What to do for a child who doesn’t want to go to school | ThisMayHelp

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If your child is avoiding school, Eddie Marsan shares advice & tips from NHS Mental Health Experts on how you can help. Watch the video here.

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Support Group for Parents and Carers

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MERSEY CARE Liverpool and Sefton - Anyone aged 16 and over, needing urgent mental health support, call the 24/7 freephone helpline: 0800 145 6570. https://www.merseycare.nhs.uk/urgent-help

PAPYRUS HOPELINE247 - a confidential support and advice service for children and young people under the age of 35 who are experiencing thoughts of suicide, or anyone concerned that a young person could be thinking about suicide. Lines are open 24 hours every day of the year. Call: 0800 068 4141 or text: 07860 039 967
https://www.papyrus-uk.org/papyrus-HOPELINE247/

YoungMinds - A wide range of information, resources and support for parents/carers and young people about mental health and wellbeing.
www.youngminds.org.uk

MindEd - safe and reliable advice about young peoples mental health, created by experts and parents together.
https://www.mindedforfamilies.org.uk/young-people

BEAT - The UK's leading eating disorder charity. They offer a helpline, web chat, information, resources, training, and online peer support groups for anyone affected by eating disorders.
Helpline: 0808 801 0677 (free to call from all phones) - 3pm - 8pm every day of the year.
Email: [email protected]
www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk

National Self Harm Network (NSHN)
Survivor-led closely monitored online support forum for people who self harm, and their friends and families.
www.nshn.co.uk

The Mix - support for under 25's on any topic that affects young people today. Their mission is to empower every young person to make an informed choice about their wellbeing; whether that's through their peer-led and moderated community, one-to-one webchat, email support, counselling service, crisis support messenger or range of support content.
Crisis Support Messenger: text 'THEMIX' to 85258
themix.org.uk

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FRESH PLUS Parent/Carer Support Group - Alder Hey Children’s Hospital Trust

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About FRESH PLUS We know how difficult it can be for parents and carers when their child is experiencing mental health difficulties. We are a support group set up by parents and carers to provide other parents/carers with a safe, confidential, non-judgemental space to find help, advice and support on the journey they find themselves […]

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Help and Advice to support children's Mental Health

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What is your concern?

This May Help has been created for parents and carers to help manage their child's mental health.

The subjects covered on this website have been chosen by parents and carers just like you, and in consultation with young people who have gone through their own mental health issues. What helped them may also help you.

On each page you'll find text for every topic along with more support films and links to other resources.

On the downloadable advice page you can download a printable version to use whenever you want.

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Advice for supporting your child's mental health | ThisMayHelp

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We are an initiative in partnership with the NHS to provide mental health support for parents of teens. Explore our videos for expert advice

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Sleep eBook - Helping your child with sleep

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Sleep eBook - Helping your child with sleep

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A helpful guide that shows how common sleep issues are, that parents are not alone and that help and support is available.

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Welcome to the World of Sleep eBook

Supported by Dunelm, The Sleep Charity has launched a brand-new Children's Sleep eBook as part of its 'Tired of Being Alone' campaign to support parents and carers who have a child or children that struggle to get good quality sleep. It's a helpful guide that shows how common sleep issues, that parents are not alone and that help and support is available.

When we have children, we expect there to be some disrupted nights. Unfortunately for some families the sleepless nights can continue for months and even years. Parents can feel isolated, lonely and often judged. We want to reassure those who are affected with children's sleep difficulties that there is help available, and that things can change.

Around 4 in 10 children will experience a sleep problem at some point and this rises to 8 out of 10 children where there is a diagnosis of Special Educational Need or Disability (SEND). These problems are typically persistent and do not resolve themselves without intervention.

While the eBook is aimed primarily at parents, we also want to educate health professionals, children's centres, primary schools - anyone who works with children and their parents. We want everyone to understand how important sleep is to good health, the impact of sleep deprivation and how we can help to prioritise sleep
We are here, we can help.

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Children's Sleep eBook - The Sleep Charity

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Supported by Dunelm, The Sleep Charity has launched a brand-new Children's Sleep eBook as part of its 'Tired of Being Alone' campaign to support parents and carers who have a child or children that struggle to get good quality sleep.

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

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Grounding techniques

A grounding technique is a coping strategy for managing intense feelings and emotions. These techniques help to 'ground' us, which means they help us to notice the present moment we are in.

When we focus on our present moment this can reduce the intensity of the emotions and feelings we might be having. We focus less intensely on the future or on the past.

You could encourage your child to:

use their five senses - concentrating on what they can see, touch, hear, smell, and taste. For example, you could think together about five things they can see, four things they can touch, three things they can hear, two things they can smell and one thing they can taste

take deep "belly breaths" - taking slow, deep breaths can help ease the feelings of anxiety and worry. To help your child do this, have them take a deep breathe through their nose, placing their hand on their stomach, and breathing in until their belly expands. Have them hold this for a few seconds, release slowly, and repeat

try the "roots" technique - focusing on a specific image can help to ground someone. Talk with your child and help them imagine that they are trees with roots extending from their feet into the ground. Get them to push their feet into the floor, imagining their "roots" reach deep into the earth, creating the image they are stable and firm, instead of feeling unsteady and unsure

Talking about, and naming, feelings

You could use the image to the right to talk about anxiety with your child.

1. Name the feeling and some of the possible affects your child may have experienced.

"Anxiety - when we feel anxious we can sometimes experience; difficulty remembering we are present in our current location, time and space, breathing can get faster, racing thoughts, heart rate increases", for example.

2. Ask them how they feel when they are anxious or worried. You could use the blank bubbles to add other feelings they have experienced or are experiencing.

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Strategies for coping with anxiety and worry

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

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Supporting a child after a frightening event

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Supporting a child after a frightening event

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Frightening public events are reported widely in the media and can cause children to worry about themselves and others.

Whether a child has witnessed a frightening event or knows someone involved, or has heard about it in the media, it is normal for them to be worried after something scary has happened; many will show some upset, sadness or fearfulness in the short term and children who have directly witnessed or have been bereaved through a traumatic event are likely to show a stronger reaction.

How might a child react to a frightening event?

Each child will respond in their own way, but this will vary according to their age and level of understanding, as well as their cultural background, personality, previous experience of loss and bereavement and the support they have available. It will also depend on the opportunities they have to talk to others and process what has happened.

Common responses might include sleep difficulties or nightmares; feeling fearful or anxious; flashbacks (if they have witnessed the event); changes in appetite; physical symptoms like tummy aches; more emotional behaviour; poor concentration: and a lack of interest in usual activities.

Younger children may become clingy and be anxious about being apart from parents or carers. They might think that they were somehow responsible for what happened and need reassurance that this was not the case. Some younger children might re-enact what happened through play, which is normal and their way of trying to make sense of what has happened. Such responses might be immediate or delayed and show up later as they process events. Reassure your child that it's normal to feel upset, scared, or angry or to have any number of mixed feelings. Most children will return to their usual behaviour after a few weeks, particularly if they have had the opportunity to talk about what has happened. In some cases, children may later develop resilience after witnessing a frightening event which can help them to cope with other challenging life events.

Whatever your child's reaction, letting them know that their feelings are normal and to be expected can be reassuring and can help to reduce stressful feelings.

Why is my child re-enacting what happened?

After witnessing or hearing about a frightening event, it is normal for some younger children to re-enact what has happened in their play, for instance repeatedly smashing their toy cars together after they have experienced a road accident or stabbing their dolls after hearing about an attack on the television. Whilst this might be disconcerting for adults, this can be a child's way of trying to make sense of what has happened and it is not something to be worried about in the short term. Children can flit very quickly between periods of intense distress and calm, one moment sobbing and seemingly inconsolable and the next asking if they can go and play or watch television. This is entirely normal and is their way of coping with intense situations. Watch our short animated film, Puddle Jumping , for more on how young children cope with difficult feelings.

Should I talk to my child about what has happened?

Sometimes adults try to protect children by avoiding any discussion about the event. They worry about further upsetting their child or making things worse. However, children and young people usually find it helpful to talk about what has happened. Talking about the things that have frightened them can enable children to make sense of what has happened and help them become less fearful and more likely to share how they are feeling.

Adults can help by gauging when a child is ready to talk and sensitively choosing the right moment. As one child told us:

It helps to know why everyone in the family is sad and worried because when you don't know what is happening, you can't help thinking it is your fault.

What should I say to my child?

Make time to explain to your child what has happened using age-appropriate language which is suitable for their level of understanding .

Be open and honest even if some of the details are difficult but don't overload with too much information as this can be overwhelming. A frightening event can be even more difficult to cope with for a child if they sense adults are reluctant to answer their questions.

Explain things in a simple, direct way. A child does not need all the details at once and can gradually take on more information over time and will ask if they need to know more.

Tell your child that these events are extremely rare and that's why we hear about them on the news when they happen. Try to avoid talking about 'bad people' as this can be particularly frightening for children. Refer instead to 'bad acts' or 'sad events'. Give lots of calm reassurance.

For younger children, you might say:

'Something really sad happened in London today. A man drove his car into a crowd and some people were killed. There is a lot on the television about it because these kinds of things are unusual and don't happen very often. Lots of people are talking about it because it is so sad that it happened.'

Older children may have more questions and need more details about the event.

What can I do to help my child cope with what has happened?

Keep to daily routines such as school, leisure activities, bedtimes and mealtimes. Getting back to a 'normal' routine, as far as this is possible, is reassuring as it makes life feel consistent and predictable and helps children feel safe and secure. Try to manage your own anxiety so that you can provide calm reassurance to your child about their own safety.

Give your child opportunities to talk about what has happened and encourage them to ask questions, without forcing them to talk. It can also help to find ways for them to express their feelings through art and craft activities. You could make a 'scream box' for your child to shout into; you might provide a cushion for your child to punch or encourage them to try something physical such as stamping feet or running and jumping to release any feelings of anger. Older children may find doing something physical like playing football or going for a walk helpful. Finding time to do fun or relaxing things together can also be helpful.

Let them know their reactions are normal and are to be expected after such an event and that it is most likely that the intensity of their feelings will reduce over time.

Give your child plenty of reassurance, offer more hugs than usual and find something comforting such as a blanket or soft toy to encourage feelings of security.

After a frightening event, how can I help my child with worries about themself and others?

Children can worry that they or someone close to them might also be hurt or involved in a frightening event. Although you cannot offer definite reassurance that this will not happen, it can be helpful to stress the rarity of such events. If a child starts to ask more about death and dying, there are many books available that can help with a frank discussion and introduce the topic in an age-appropriate way. Adolescents and teenagers will be more aware of shocking or upsetting events from social media, but much of what they hear may be sensationalised and they may be exposed to rumour and speculation. A death by murder or manslaughter or reinforces the feeling that the world is a scary and dangerous place and repeated reference to such events can give the impression that they are a more common occurrence than is really the case. For more on supporting a child when someone dies suddenly, see our resource on sudden death, including accidents, suicide and homicide. It is important to reassure your child that these incidents are relatively rare and that is why we hear about them in the media. See our resource for more on explaining to a child that someone has died .

How can I help my child cope with frightening world events?

If a large-scale disaster such as an earthquake or a terrorist attack has happened in a particular area or country, and is shown in the media, this may be discussed at your child's school. You can ask your child's school how the topic is being managed within school and what information has been shared so that you can discuss it with your child and address any anxieties they may have. You may find it helpful to direct your child's school to our online resources for schools .

How can I look after myself after a frightening event?

Supporting a child after a frightening event can be difficult particularly when you are, understandably, also upset about what has happened and are struggling with your own reactions. Children are quick to pick up on the distress of adults around them even if the adults are trying to hide their feelings. Looking after your own wellbeing is important, helping you to cope with your own feelings and in turn support your child. You may find it helpful to look at our resource on looking after yourself when someone has died.

How can I get support for my child after a frightening event?

Many conflicting and mixed emotions are to be expected in the short term after a frightening event has happened and most children will show some signs of upset. However, if your child continues to be very distressed over a lasting period, or if their behaviour or emotional state is affecting everyday activities or causing concern, you may find it helpful to discuss it with your Health Visitor or GP. They may be able to advise you on who can provide some further support. For support for a bereaved child after a frightening event, you can contact us via our Helpline or Live Chat.

Visit our page: How we can support you for more on our services.

You can also call our Helpline 0800 02 888 40, email [email protected] , or use Live Chat on our website.

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Short films delivered by our support practitioners giving guidance on a range of bereavement topics. Read more

A list of books and resources relating to grief and bereavement and what may help. Read more

Watch short films and read experiences of bereaved families and how support has helped them. Read more

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charity bereavement child death grief loss baby stillbirth miscarriage suicide young people parents

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Supporting a child after a frightening event

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Ways in which adults can support children worried about frightening events, including those reported in the media.

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Sleep routines for toddlers and children

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Sleep routines for toddlers and children

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Sleep routines for toddlers and children

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Find advice on establishing a healthy sleep routine for your toddler or child. Explore tips on naps, how to help your child wind down and sleep through the night.

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Try these Calming or Grounding techniques if your child is feeling worried or anxious. These techniques take lots of practice, so give them a try.

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Helpful resource for when children are feeling anxious, upset or distressed. These techniques take practice - Give them a try

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Try these Calming or Grounding techniques if your child is feeling worried or anxious. These techniques take lots of practice, so give them a try.

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Supporting you so you can support them. 

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Supporting you so you can support them. 

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Supporting you so you can support them.

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Parent and carer support for 10-12 year olds

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We’re here to help parents and carers like you support your children aged 10-12-years-old. Watch our animations to help start those important conversations.

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Helpful Resource for when your children are feeling anxious, upset or distressed. These techniques take practice - Give them a try.

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Help your child with any worries they may have. Find a time that works to talk to your child/ren about any worries they may have.

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A Guide to understanding and managing trauma

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A Guide to understanding and managing trauma

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Sefton CYP Mental Health Snapshot of Support 

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Sefton CYP Mental Health Snapshot of Support 

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Sefton CVS | Supporting Local Communities

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Warm Spaces are places where people can gather for free in a safe, warm place to connect with others and maybe enjoy a hot drink and food. Working alongside voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations and in partnership with Sefton Council we have established a network of Warm Spaces across Sefton this summer. These include community centres,

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Looking after your child following trauma

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Looking after your child following trauma

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We help children, young people, parents, and families to rebuild their lives when a child grieves or when a child dies.

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Woodvale & Ainsdale Community Association

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You can click here to find out what we are doing to help limit the spread of Covid-19 at the Community and Recreation centres.

Woodvale and Ainsdale Community Association (WACA) is a registered charity in Woodvale, Southport. We provide daytime, evening and school holiday activities for people in the local community.

We have two centres within the area for the community to use, subject to availability. Our Community Centre is located on Meadow Lane and our Recreation Centre is on Orchard Lane backing on to the local recreation fields.

We pride ourselves on being able to provide quality services for all members of the community. If you find anything that is not up to standard, or you would like to leave us positive feedback, don't hesitate to get in touch!

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Home - Woodvale & Ainsdale Community Association

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Woodvale and Ainsdale Community Association (WACA) is a registered charity in Woodvale, Southport. We provide daytime, evening and school holiday activities for people in the local community. We have two centres within the area for the community to use, subject to availability.

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Make-referral (seftonliverpoolcamhs.com)

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Talking to your child about Mental Health

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Talking to your child about Mental Health

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Giving our children and young people opportunities to open up is one of the biggest things we can do as parents and carers to support their wellbeing. It can be easy to forget the simple power of sharing what we're going through and feeling heard. But even though you can't fix everything when your child is struggling, you can make them feel seen and understood - and this in itself can make them feel more able to cope.

Talking about how they are, how their day has been and what's on their mind as part of everyday family life shows your child that you're interested in them and want to listen. It also supports them to practise thinking and talking about their feelings, helping them to get to know themselves and what they need.

But talking isn't always easy. You might feel like you don't know where to start, when a 'good time' is, or how your young person will react. Or, you might be worried about making things worse or saying the wrong thing. If this is the case, try to remember that your child doesn't need you to always get it right - they just need to know you're there.

Here, you can find lots of ideas, conversation starters and advice for making talking easier.

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How to Talk to Your Child about Mental Health

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Read our advice on how you can talk to your child about mental health and encourage them to talk about their feelings.

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Safe and happy childhoods

We protect and support children and young people, providing practical and emotional care and support. We ensure their voices are heard, and campaign to bring lasting improvements to their lives.

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We protect and support children and young people, providing practical and emotional care and support. We campaign to bring lasting improvements to their lives

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What's On - Thornton Family Wellbeing Centre

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What's On - Thornton Family Wellbeing Centre

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What's on at your Family Wellbeing Centre

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YoungMinds | Mental Health Charity For Children And Young People

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YoungMinds are a mental health charity for children, young people and their parents, making sure all young people can get the mental health support they need.

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For information and support for parents/carers please follow @freshplusgroup on twitter or click here to visit our parent/carer website

Here are some questions young people have asked us. If you don't find an answer to your question here, please call us on 0151 293 3662 and we will be happy to have a chat with you. You can also make a self referral by calling us.

How can we access CAMHS?

If you are worried about your child's emotional and mental health, you can seek a referral from any professional connected with your child (e.g. GP, Social Worker, Health Visitor, School Nurse or Teacher). We also take referrals over the phone and you can 'self refer' your child by calling us. Over 16s can also self-refer

Every weekday we have a team of experienced mental health professionals who look at the referrals that we receive. Their task is to decide whether it looks from the information as if CAMHS is the right service to help, they then decide whether the referral should be treated as urgent or routine. Urgent appointments are seen within two weeks and routine appointments are seen as soon as possible (and within the maximum wait time of 18 weeks).

What to expect at your first appointment?

Your first appointment is called a 'Choice' appointment. We call it this because we hope to give children, young people and families and carers as much choice as possible in the plans that are made to start helping.

You will meet with an experienced member of our team who will work with you to develop an initial shared understanding of the difficulties. We will be asking you what you are worried about, what you have already tried and what you would like to change. We will help you to think about whether our service or other services are best placed to help. We will also be considering risk, what you might be able to do for yourselves and what the intervention options are. Ultimately, your 'Choice' appointment(s) should help bring you to a point where you can make an informed decision about what is needed.

Your 'Choice' Clinician will then direct you to the most appropriate part of our service if we think that CAMHS interventions are likely to be helpful and effective. In most cases, the next person you meet will be your 'Partnership' Clinician who will oversee any on-going care.

What happens next?

We hope that between your 'Choice' and 'Partnership' appointments that the advice you have been given and the changes you begin to make will have been helpful. There are several aims of the first 'Partnership' session. Firstly, there will be a chance to revisit your goals and see if these have changed at all. We will also begin a more in depth assessment to reach a shared understanding and develop a plan of action and support.

Your 'Partnership' Clinician will have a set of core clinical skills, mental health training, experience and expertise. However, you are experts in your own family and your own experiences and we will work in partnership with you to offer as many or as few sessions as are needed to move towards your goals. On average, seven or eight sessions appear to be enough to achieve some meaningful change; however, decisions about on-going care or discharge will be made at regular review appointments. The care that you receive will also be discussed within a Multi-disciplinary team.

Sometimes, your 'Partnership' Clinician will want to introduce another therapist to you or your child. This would be to add a specific assessment or therapy skill to your bespoke package of intervention. This might be about providing a short piece of intensive work/assessment or a longer term piece of work at an enhanced level.

In general, the care that your family and your child would fall in to the following areas:

Consultation and Multi-Agency Work

Extended Assessment

Individual Therapeutic Interventions

Family Interventions

Group Based Interventions

Training

How do we measure change?

We are committed to delivering high quality, evidence-based and effective support. From the beginning of your involvement with us we will be monitoring the impact of any interventions. You will be asked to fill in some questionnaires that will be repeated throughout the time that we spend with you and your family. The questionnaires will help us to determine the severity of difficulties and will also help us to monitor change over time. We will also ask you to feed back to us about your experience of our service.

The measures that we use are part of our involvement with the Children and Young People's Increasing Access to Psychological Therapies (CYPIAPT) initiative

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For information and support for parents/carers please follow @freshplusgroup on twitter or click here to visit our parent/carer website Here are some questions young people have asked us. If you don't find an answer to your question here, please call us on 0151 293 3662 and we will be happy to have a chat with ...

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Supporting children with anxiety: tools for parents

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Supporting children with anxiety: tools for parents

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We are a charity that offers free, confidential support to people in England and Scotland who have issues with drugs, alcohol or mental health

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Supporting women to achieve mental well-being and providing services for women who experience anxiety, depression, stress or mental health issues.

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We want to ensure that support is available at the earliest opportunity for men in our community, we do this by providing a range of practical, proactive support that is free to access.

Often in life we experience stress, loss, break ups, trauma and loneliness which can lead to feelings of depression, anxiety and feelings of hopelessness and despair, sometimes there may be no reason why we feel the way we do which can cause frustration and feelings of confusion. The key thing to remember is that help is available.

Mental health is not a one size fits all so support shouldn't be either. Often, we will all need a helping hand to guide us through difficult times, so we have a range of support to help:

Therapeutic Support - for those who need a space to talk and find ways to cope to work through challenging times.

Social Support - for those who may be experiencing isolation or feelings of being alone and not being able to turn to those around them.

Please visit page for more information

We also support families through our Family Support Group for those who are caring for a loved one and would like to know how they can help too at home.

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Mens Mental Health Support Sefton | Liverpool - Sean's Place

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We want to ensure that support is available at the earliest opportunity for men in our community, we do this by providing a range of practical, proactive support that is free to access.

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Kooth is your online mental wellbeing community. Access free, safe and anonymous

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Helping your child with school refusal/anxiety

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Helping your child with school refusal/anxiety

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What is school anxiety or refusal?

School can be a source of support and community as well as learning. It can provide responsibilities that boost self-esteem, exposure to different opinions, new experiences, a sense of achievement, friendships and relationships with trusted adults.

It is however completely normal for children to feel worried about aspects of school life occasionally. This is usually short-lived, but for some children school can feel challenging, stressful or distressing for a longer period.

In some cases this builds up so that the child is reluctant to go in, or becomes so severe that they are unable to attend. This is usually called 'school refusal', though many object to the implication that it's a choice. It is also known as emotionally-based school avoidance (EBSA) or anxiety-related absence.

If your child is struggling with school-related anxiety or refusal, it's important to recognise the problem and work with them, the school and, if appropriate, other professionals to provide the right support as soon as possible.

What causes school anxiety or refusal?

Young people can feel anxious about school for many reasons.

They may be worried about things like settling into a new school, friendship difficulties, exam or academic pressure, or bullying. Or there may be difficulties outside school, such as bereavement, divorce, parental illness, being a young carer, or anxiety about separation from family or the comfort of home (this can be heightened after a school holiday or absence).

School problems can also result from physical illness or mental health conditions such as depression, or neurodevelopmental conditions including things like ADHD or ASD, which may be undiagnosed or not well-supported.

Young people tell us their worries about school can include:

finding the work difficult, or problems with concentration

finding school exhausting, especially if dealing with mental or physical health issues

feeling pressure to get good results

friendship difficulties

experiencing or witnessing bullying

feeling like they don't 'fit in', aren't accepted, supported or seen

not getting on with teachers

feeling pressured to learn in a particular way

additional needs such as dyslexia or ADHD not being recognised

feeling average or no good among high-achieving peers

Young people may show they're feeling anxious about school by:

not wanting to get up and get ready

being reluctant or refusing to go to school

worrying excessively about small issues, such as having the right equipment for a lesson

feeling sick or having stomach or headaches

not doing schoolwork, or grades dropping

being angry or upset, or acting out - at school or home

withdrawing - seeming low, quiet or depressed

reluctance to return after a period of illness

not going to school without you knowing

Helping your child with school anxiety

Younger children might find it helpful to feel that their worries are being held somewhere, making them more manageable. We have step-by-step instructions on how to build a worry box with your child.

Or you can encourage your teenager to fill a box with things that calm them when they're feeling worried. They can use our guide on how to make a self-soothe box.

For more techniques, advice and information on how to help your child with anxiety, take a look at our guide.

Strategies that can help reduce anxiety in school

linking your child with a pastoral staff member they trust and can talk to

having that person start each day with a short chat or game with your child

linking your child with a peer buddy or mentor

providing a safe space, such as mentor's office or wellbeing room for break or other difficult times

finding ways for them to feel more involved, for example through a club or a responsibility such as library monitor

breaking the day down and asking your child what might help with each stage, for instance having a friend meet them at the gate

flexible start-time or timetable, or support for transition between lessons

having an 'exit card' so your child can leave a lesson if too anxious

If your child is worried about starting a new school

We teamed up with our friends over at Beano studios to make a series of fun videos to help younger children worried about starting a new school, going back after a holiday, making friends or fitting in.

Helping your child with school refusal

If your child is unable to go to school you will need to provide extra support both practically and emotionally, but there is a lot you can do to help them.

If your child is struggling with their mental health, it is important they are given the care they need. Tell the GP your child's education is also being affected. Discuss a CAMHS referral if this isn't underway.

If you think your child may have a special educational need or disability, speak to the school's SENCO about referral for assessment and possibly for an education, health and care plan (EHC plan). These identify a child's needs and outline necessary support.

The school or CAMHS may suggest a Team Around the Child (TAC) meeting, bringing together the different professionals working with your child, to work out the best plan. Our parents' guide has more advice and information on finding help.

Seeing your child unable to drag themselves out of bed for the education you know they need can be heartbreaking, but remember they don't want to fail at school either.

Tips for working with your child's school

Whether your child is in school or unable to attend, it is important that you, the school and your child work together to help them.

Helping your child return after school absence

Getting back to school after weeks or months can feel extremely difficult for a young person, but you and the school can help make it more manageable. Here are some things you can do to help:

set small, achievable targets, such as visiting the building outside school hours or attending one lesson

request a home visit from a school staff member, so your child can check in while feeling safe, see that the school cares and discuss strategies

ask for a reduced timetable, with regular reviews to discuss building back up at a manageable rate

discuss changing classes or sets if your child thinks this would help

focus on qualifications needed for your child's preferred next steps, perhaps dropping a less relevant GCSE to reduce stress.

If there is no other obvious reason for your child's inability to attend, there may be an undiagnosed SEN. Ensure potential underlying conditions, such as autism or ADHD, are investigated and supported.

What happens if my child doesn't go to school?

Parents often tell us they are worried about fines and prosecution, but schools generally consider this only if they feel there is no valid reason for the absence or that parents aren't engaging with the problem.

If the absence is prolonged, the case may be referred to a local council Education Welfare Officer (EWO). They will arrange a home visit to find out more and discuss strategies. The school may also refer to other support, including from CAMHS.

Children who can't attend mainstream school are entitled to alternative provision of education in a different setting. This could be a separate unit within or outside the school, an independent provider, home tuition or online tuition. Each local authority website should link to a Parent Partnership, setting out local alternative provision options and information.

"A loving response from us can make a difference in how they feel about themselves, improving their likelihood of good outcomes."

Where to get further support

If your child is struggling with school anxiety and refusal, here are some services that can help.

You might also find this helpful

We have more tips and advice on supporting your child with school and information about how you can get in touch with our Parents Helpline.

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School Anxiety and Refusal | Parents' Guide to Support

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What is school anxiety or refusal? School can be a source of support and community as well as learning. It can provide responsibilities that boost self-esteem, exposure to different opinions, new experiences, a sense of achievement, friendships and relationships with trusted adults. It is however completely normal for children to feel worried about aspects of school life occasionally.

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Information about the National Autistic Society leadership team, trustees, patron, president and vice presidents.

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Child abuse is when a child is intentionally harmed by an adult or another child - it can be over a period of time but can also be a one-off action. It can be physical, sexual or emotional and it can happen in person or online. It can also be a lack of love, care and attention - this is neglect.

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Find out about the types of child abuse, how to spot the signs, what to do if you're worried about a child and hear stories from children who've experienced abuse..

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

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How to support your child’s mental health – Place2Be

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Place2Be works with schools to help parents support their child’s mental health and improve their emotional wellbeing.

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Huge thanks to our corporate partner, Furniture Village, who has helped us to launch a brand new National Sleep Helpline to ensure that everyone has access to high quality, evidence-based advice regardless of age, ethnicity, background or income.
"We've always believed that sleep is equally as important as diet and exercise yet we know the UK is really struggling to sleep, particularly with the ongoing effects of the pandemic" says Charlie Harrison, Furniture Village Commercial Director. "From my work as a doctor, I know how great the need for a National Sleep Helpline is. It will make a huge difference to so many people." Dr Ranj, Furniture Village Sleep and Wellness Advisor
Working together to improve the nation's sleep.

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National Sleep Helpline - The Sleep Charity

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Who do I talk to if I can't sleep? The National Sleep Helpline can help with your sleep problems, 7pm-9pm, Sunday to Thursday, 03303 530 541.

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Skip to main content Skip to accessibility tools

Our Pathways Advisors

can support you with everything from housing and employment, to mental and physical wellbeing.

Pathways Advice Service

Learning your way

Come along to one of our learning sessions - there's something for everyone! From fitness sessions and mental wellbeing sessions to arts, crafts and music.

More about our learning offer

Our sites

We offer services across Merseyside, in our warm and welcoming sites in Walton, Lee Valley, Southport, and Bootle.

Find your nearest Life Rooms

Who are we?

We are here to help you improve your mental and physical wellbeing. Whatever the issue; from housing and employment, to lifestyle or exercise. We're here when you're ready to take your next steps towards a healthier life. Our services are available to anyone aged 18+.

Learning timetable

The Life Rooms provides a wide range of free, short courses to increase recognition, understanding and self management on symptoms such as anxiety, depression, psychosis, self esteem and many more.

Helping you get the right support

We offer a wide range of support to help you in the best way possible. Whatever the issue you might be facing.

Return to header

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Skip to main content Skip to accessibility tools can support you with everything from housing and employment, to mental and physical wellbeing. Pathways Advice Service Come along to one of our learning sessions - there's something for everyone! From fitness sessions and mental wellbeing sessions to arts, crafts and music.

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We run various projects and activities, all focused on reducing poverty and increasing social wellbeing in order to improve the lives of people in our area.

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Local charity working to reduce poverty and increase social wellbeing in Southport

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We believe in enabling children to become the best that they can be, develop emotional resilience and reach their full potential.

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Ykids is a charity based in Bootle, which has a vision to see children and young people become world changers.

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Support for anyone aged 16 year and over

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Support for anyone aged 16 year and over

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If you are aged 16 & over, are registered with a GP in South Sefton, Southport, or Formby and are experiencing a mental health difficulty that is affecting your daily living, employment, or health Talking Matters Sefton may be of benefit to you.

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Phone: 0300 303 2708
Email: [email protected]
Address: Unit 5, Stella Nova, Washington Parade, Bootle, Merseyside, L20 4TQ
Opening hours:

Monday - Thursday, 8am - 8pm (excluding bank holidays)

Friday, 8am-5pm

Saturday, 9am-1pm (coming soon)

To self-refer online please click here. Please note, you must be registered with a Sefton GP to make a referral.
Welcome to Talking Matters Sefton (TMS), which is part of the national Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) programme.
What we do:

One in four people will experience a mental health difficulty at some point in their life. IAPT was introduced as a way in which people could access Talking Therapies as close to their home or place of work as possible.

Talking Matters Sefton is a free, confidential service designed to help anyone aged over 16 in the South Sefton, Southport, and Formby areas to deal with common mental health difficulties. These may include depression, anxiety, panic, phobia, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), or post-traumatic stress disorder.

We are able to deliver support in a number of flexible ways, including by telephone, digitally, video, and face to face.

The service is staffed by a team of highly skilled mental health professionals, offering services including:
Read about the different interventions we offer
IAPT services seek to use the least intrusive method of care possible to treat people. This is called 'stepped care'. The clinician delivering your treatment will explain to you what choices are available and why they are considered suitable for you. Our service is non-judgemental, and we'll offer you as many treatment options as possible to help you decide what works best for you.

New online group workshops: If you are experiencing symptoms of low mood that are affecting your daily living, then our workshop may be of benefit to you. The workshop will run for 4 weeks and is completely free to attend. If this is something you may be interested in, please follow the referral process. Following referral, you will be offered a telephone assessment to ensure that the group workshop is the right support option for you.

Psychological Treatment Workshops: these sessions are interactive between you and one of our therapists. They are designed to present information about mental health difficulties and some of the things you can do to manage your problems effectively.

Guided Self Help: these sessions are designed to help you access good quality information about the problems you are experiencing. You will have regular appointments with one of our therapists who will help you to design your own treatment package.

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT): this is a time-limited talking therapy focused on how you feel right now. It can help you to understand how your thoughts feelings and actions may be linked to your problems and can help to identify the changes which could be made to improve your mood.

Online Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (Silvercloud): Silvercloud is an online course to help you manage anxiety and depression. You work through a series of topics and techniques selected by a therapist to address your specific needs. You will have weekly online reviews with your allocated practitioner. However, the course is designed to be completed in your own time and at your own pace. You will also have access to this programme for up to 12 months once you have completed the course.

EMDR: Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing is another talking therapy that's been developed to help people who have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). People who have PTSD may experience intrusive thoughts, memories, nightmares or flashbacks of traumatic events in their past. EMDR helps the brain reprocess memories of the traumatic event so you can let go of them.

Counselling for Depression: this therapy has been specially developed to help people understand the underlying causes of their depression. Counselling for depression is usually offered to people who have mild to moderate depression and have already tried other therapies, such as guided self-help.

Couples Therapy for Depression: this is a couple's therapy that is designed to treat depression in couples where there is also relationship distress.

Signposting. We have developed strong links with a range of organisations that provide services we do not offer, such as help with anger and bereavement counselling.

Talking Matters Sefton is also a Single Point of Access for other mental health services and agencies in Sefton.

Who is this service for?

If you are aged 16 & over, are registered with a GP in South Sefton, Southport, or Formby and are experiencing a mental health difficulty that is affecting your daily living, employment, or health Talking Matters Sefton may be of benefit to you.

How do I access the service?

You can self-refer to the service online via our online referral form, by calling 0300 303 2708, or via the email address above. Please note, you must be registered with a Sefton GP to make a referral. Once we have received your referral, we will contact you to arrange your first assessment.

You will be asked some standard questions which will enable us to monitor your progress and continuously improve the services we offer. Once you have made a referral, you'll be offered the next available telephone assessment appointment. You will be assessed over the phone by one of our CBT Therapists or Psychological Wellbeing Practitioners and the appointment is likely to last up to 45 minutes. This will help us understand the problems you have been experiencing and your goals for recovery.

MHM are committed to ensuring that any personal data we receive or collect is used fairly and lawfully, safeguarded, and processed in accordance with applicable data protection law. You can click here to read about our Data Protection Policy and access a full copy of our Client Privacy Notice.

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Phone: 0300 303 2708 Email: tms.referrals@nhs.net Address: Unit 5, Stella Nova, Washington Parade, Bootle, Merseyside, L20 4TQ Opening hours: Monday - Thursday, 8am - 8pm (excluding bank holidays) Friday, 8am-5pm Saturday, 9am-1pm (coming soon) To self-refer online please click here. Please note, you must be registered with a Sefton GP to make a referral.

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This is a collection of websites that provide information and support to young people and families. If you click on the image it will open the website in a new window. Most of the sites are free though some have paid components to them to access added resources and support.

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Beat is a website dedicated to Eating Disorders.

An online learning and advice resource for anyone interested in, or concerned about, the mental health of children and teenagers.

A counselling service for children and young people up to their 19th birthday in the UK provided by the NSPCC

Parenting and family support

The ACAMH website has extensive information about youth mental health topics as well as resources for professionals working with young people and families

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​ Beat is a website dedicated to Eating Disorders. An online learning and advice resource for anyone interested in, or concerned about, the mental health of children and teenagers.

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https://www.venuscharity.org/service/star-centre

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About Us

Venus' Misson is:

To empower, promote and support women, young women and their children in developing their potential, recognising their choices, achieving their goals and challenging injustice

Steve McQueen - CEO

Bio

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Case Study 1

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Refer a third Party

Please fill out the form below and we will contact you.

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Housing Related Support Programme

Offers befriending, advocacy, emotional and practical support to women and families who are vulnerable and may be in need of support to address parenting issues, access services and activities in the community. Children are offered one to one support from our dedicated Children’s Worker and families are supported to participate in processes such as Common Assessment Framework and Child Protection.

Our Children’s Worker facilitates the Venus Juniors Group each Thursday evening 4-5pm for children of parents engaging with our Families at Risk Programme. Referrals to this group should be made via support workers.

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Volunteer

Please fill out the form below and we will contact you.

Self Referral

Please fill out the form below and we will contact you.

Refer someone else

Please fill out the form below and we will contact you.

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To empower, promote and support women, young women and their children in developing their potential, recognising their choices, achieving their goals and challenging injustice

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“The foodbank was there when we really needed it, it was an absolute lifeline.”

We don’t think anyone in our community should have to face going hungry. That’s why we provide three days’ nutritionally balanced emergency food and support to local people who are referred to us in crisis. We are part of a nationwide network of foodbanks, supported by The Trussell Trust, working to combat poverty and hunger across the UK.

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We know that anyone can reach crisis point and we’re here to help when that happens.

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Working with Families

Our Service is here to provide support for the whole family so we can either work with the family as a whole or on an individual basis.  We offer a confidential setting where families and children will have the opportunity to explore how they are feeling through the use of many different tools and strategies.

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We are a dedicated team who feel very passionate about helping others.We are impartial so are here to support the family as a whole and not to judge.We will offer advice and support to parents whilst giving their children the space and time to explore their issues.

We are here to help children explore their options focusing on changes they may feel need to be made.This helps reduce any confusion they may be feeling.We believe by helping children and young people examine in detail their behaviour or a situation this can help initiate change.This will arm children with life skills for when they are faced with future difficulties.

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Our Service is here to provide support for the whole family so we can either work with the family as a whole or on an individual basis. We offer a confidential setting where families and children will have the opportunity to explore how they are feeling through the use of many different tools and s…

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Parenting Smart offers practical advice for parents and carers of children aged 5-11. All of our content is created by Place2Be's parenting experts. It's based on evidence and their experiences working with children, young people and their families.

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Parenting 2000 is a registered charity that was set up in 1994 by a group of parents.

We are based in the metropolitan borough of Sefton on Merseyside and run a range of services that provide emotional and practical support, and information targeted at vulnerable children, young people and families in our community.

Our activities are delivered to members of the community from Parenting 2000's two centres based at Mornington Road in Southport and The Youth and Community Centre in Crosby as well as peripatetically from other community venues, including a doctors surgery, schools and HM Prisons Services.

Many of our programmes are also available to be commissioned by organisations such as schools, HM Prison services local authorities, businesses etc. Please contact us for further information.

For more information click here

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Parenting 2000 is a registered charity that was set up in 1994 by a group of parents. We are based in the metropolitan borough of Sefton on Merseyside and run a range of services that provide emotional and practical support, and information targeted at vulnerable children, young people and families in our community.

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Play our game and feel your worries float away

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Click on the blank letter box and write your problem or worry in the space.

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Create your ideal room. Fill it with things that help you feel happy, calm and safe.

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Create your ideal room. Fill it with things that help you feel happy, calm and safe.

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Build a tower made up of all the great things about you.

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Info and advice Menu. Press ALT and ENTER to access submenu.

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Write your worries on the wall and then watch them crumble away.

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Info and advice Menu. Press ALT and ENTER to access submenu.

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RASA Merseyside is a registered charity that aims to provide specialist support, independent advocacy, counselling, help and information, for those affected by rape, sexual assault and/or abuse - a free of charge service.

Specialist counselling for people who have experienced rape or sexual abuse including women, men and young people

Pre-Trial Counselling

Clinical Hypnotherapy Groups

Helpline support

Independent Sexual Violence Advisor Service (ISVA):

Information about the criminal justice system

Support and help through the criminal justice system

Support to apply for Criminal Injuries compensation

Information and advice about health and social options

Emotional support

Highlighting need and referring onto other, more appropriate, agencies

Liaising with other agencies involved e.g. Independent Domestic Violence Advocates (IDVA)

We can only accept referrals for clients who reside in the Liverpool, Sefton & Wirral postcode areas.

If you are a friend or family member wanting to make a referral for someone else then please contact the office on 0151 558 1801 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - alternatively you could ask the client to follow the self referral link and complete the form themselves.

We cannot accept any referrals from an agency or third party without the client consenting to the referral being made.

RASA Information leaflet - RASA Information leaflet Download

EMDR Intensive Project - Would you like to be involved, looking to refer into RASA Merseyside -

At RASA Merseyside we are always looking for innovative ways to meet clients' needs in their chose of recovery. We are looking for 9 clients to take part in our EMDR Intensive Project and will close the request once we have fulfilled those places.

EMDR is a therapy EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences such as sexual abuse. Repeated studies show that by using EMDR therapy people can experience the benefits of psychotherapy that once took years to make a difference. It is widely assumed that severe emotional pain requires a long time to heal. EMDR therapy shows that the mind can in fact heal from psychological trauma much as the body recovers from physical trauma. When you cut your hand, your body works to close the wound. If a foreign object or repeated injury irritates the wound, it festers and causes pain. Once the block is removed, healing resumes. EMDR therapy demonstrates that a similar sequence of events occurs with mental processes. The brain's information processing system naturally moves toward mental health. If the system is blocked or imbalanced by the impact of a disturbing event, the emotional wound festers and can cause intense suffering. Once the block is removed, healing resumes. Using the detailed protocols and procedures learned in EMDR therapy training sessions, clinicians help clients activate their natural healing processes.

EMDR Intensives - An EMDR Intensive can be the start that sets everything else in motion, doing an EMDR intensive can provide the results that usually take months of individual weekly sessions in just a few days. We would look to schedule the equivalent of 8-12 sessions of EMDR over a period of days rather than weeks.

What would taking part involve?

Be willing to have an assessment over the phone to check for suitability, which will take 30-50 minutes with of our team involved in the Project.

Have flexible availability in February/ March 2023.

Deadline for completion for participants place to be reserved is January 31st, 2023.

If you would like to take part or would like further information on this Project, please feel free to contact me This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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Sleeping difficulty is when you have trouble sleeping at night, this can also be known as Insomnia. It may be hard for you to fall asleep, or you may wake up several times throughout the night. Sleep difficulty may affect your physical and mental health. Lack of sleep may also cause you to have frequent headaches or trouble concentrating.

There are many things that can affect our ability to sleep well, this could be difficulties settling down, hunger or thirst, physical discomfort, fear or anxiety, bad dreams or changes in routine.

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Sleeping difficulty is when you have trouble sleeping at night, this can also be known as Insomnia. It may be hard for you to fall asleep, or you may wake up several times throughout the night. Sleep difficulty may affect your physical and mental health.

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Anger is a strong feeling of annoyance, usually in response to something wrong or bad. Other words people use for anger are mad, frustrated, annoyed or furious.

There are different ways people feel anger. Usually your body will tell you when you are angry. Are you breathing faster? Is your face bright red? Do you want to break something or hit someone?

Anger can be unhelpful at times, it might make you yell or scream at those around you, even people you like or love. Sometimes when we feel angry we can become aggressive towards others. We all feel angry sometimes. Maybe you "lose your cool" or "hit the roof." Anger can even be a good thing. When children or young people are treated unfairly, anger can help them stand up for themselves. However, if you're getting angry all the time, maybe over things that wouldn't usually trouble you, that's when anger can get in the way of what is important to you and have a negative impact on daily life.

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Anger is a strong feeling of annoyance, usually in response to something wrong or bad. Other words people use for anger are mad, frustrated, annoyed or furious. There are different ways people feel anger. Usually your body will tell you when you are angry. Are you breathing faster?

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ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a condition where you have a lot of energy that you struggle to expel. This might make it difficult for you to concentrate and to control your behaviour. In addition you may do or say things impulsively, without thinking.

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ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a condition where you have a lot of energy that you struggle to expel. This might make it difficult for you to concentrate and to control your behaviour. In addition you may do or say things impulsively, without thinking.

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Work more effectively toward your speech therapy goals. Help people who have had a stroke, live with autism, or have a speech or language impairment get talking with an app that sparks conversation. The best way to improve talking is by talking! Download this free sample version of Conversation The…

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Panic is an intense and over powering feeling of fear or anxiety. When we face stressful situations, it can set off our brain's in-built alarm system which tells us something isn't right and that we need to deal with it. We call this the Fight, Flight, Freeze response, which is our body's way of protecting us from harm. You might experience panic attacks, these are sudden episodes of panic which trigger intense feelings in your body such as a racing heartbeat, feeling hot or cold, sweating and much more.

During a panic attack you might feel like you can't breathe, are having a heart attack or going to die. Most panic attacks last between 5 to 20 minutes and they can come on very quickly. Panic attacks can be frightening, but there are things you can do to help yourself.

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Panic is an intense and over powering feeling of fear or anxiety. When we face stressful situations, it can set off our brain's in-built alarm system which tells us something isn't right and that we need to deal with it. We call this the Fight, Flight, Freeze response, which is our body's way of protecting us from harm.

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We all feel different emotions throughout our lives. Sometimes we might feel happy, excited, lucky or proud and sometimes we might feel sad, down, worried or scared. Usually, these bad feelings go away eventually by themselves, but sometimes you feel sad, down and hopeless for a long time. It can then become hard to think about or do other things in your life. This is known as depression.

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We all feel different emotions throughout our lives. Sometimes we might feel happy, excited, lucky or proud and sometimes we might feel sad, down, worried or scared. Usually, these bad feelings go away eventually by themselves, but sometimes you feel sad, down and hopeless for a long time.

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Try repeating these statements over and over to yourself. If you would like to share some positive vibes, tweet your #positivevibes to @freshCAMHS and we will share your positivity here

Try It at Home

If your device doesn't support the activity above or you are away from your device you could try the following stuff to get and give some positivity...

Be your own cheerleader

Spend a moment to think up a phrase that you know is true about you or you would want to be true. It might be something like "I am strong/brave/powerful/clever/awesome/confident/important/loved".

Put this phrase somewhere where you will see it often. That might be your mirror, beside your bed or in your bag. Make sure that when you see it (or remember it) to say it in your head or outloud as if you mean it. The things that we think about ourselves are really powerful...take time to fill yourself with some positive vibes.

What goes around comes around

Positivity is like a boomerang and often when you make a decision to put good stuff out into the world it ends up coming back to you. Even if it doesn't come back right away, it's always a good thing to be kind and positive towards our fellow human beings (and animal friends if you have any!)

Each day set yourself a target to do a few nice things, say a few kind words and make a few people's world a little brighter. Saying thank you, smiling at people and giving genuine compliments can be good places to start...

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Try repeating these statements over and over to yourself. If you would like to share some positive vibes, tweet your #positivevibes to @freshCAMHS and we will share your positivity here Try It at Home If your device doesn't support the activity above or you are away from your device you could try the following stuff to ...

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Supporting a child after a frightening Event

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Supporting a child after a frightening Event

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Frightening public events are reported widely in the media and can cause children to worry about themselves and others.

Whether a child has witnessed a frightening event or knows someone involved, or has heard about it in the media, it is normal for them to be worried after something scary has happened; many will show some upset, sadness or fearfulness in the short term and children who have directly witnessed or have been bereaved through a traumatic event are likely to show a stronger reaction.

How might a child react to a frightening event?

Each child will respond in their own way, but this will vary according to their age and level of understanding, as well as their cultural background, personality, previous experience of loss and bereavement and the support they have available. It will also depend on the opportunities they have to talk to others and process what has happened.

Common responses might include sleep difficulties or nightmares; feeling fearful or anxious; flashbacks (if they have witnessed the event); changes in appetite; physical symptoms like tummy aches; more emotional behaviour; poor concentration: and a lack of interest in usual activities.

Younger children may become clingy and be anxious about being apart from parents or carers. They might think that they were somehow responsible for what happened and need reassurance that this was not the case. Some younger children might re-enact what happened through play, which is normal and their way of trying to make sense of what has happened. Such responses might be immediate or delayed and show up later as they process events. Reassure your child that it's normal to feel upset, scared, or angry or to have any number of mixed feelings. Most children will return to their usual behaviour after a few weeks, particularly if they have had the opportunity to talk about what has happened. In some cases, children may later develop resilience after witnessing a frightening event which can help them to cope with other challenging life events.

Whatever your child's reaction, letting them know that their feelings are normal and to be expected can be reassuring and can help to reduce stressful feelings.

Why is my child re-enacting what happened?

After witnessing or hearing about a frightening event, it is normal for some younger children to re-enact what has happened in their play, for instance repeatedly smashing their toy cars together after they have experienced a road accident or stabbing their dolls after hearing about an attack on the television. Whilst this might be disconcerting for adults, this can be a child's way of trying to make sense of what has happened and it is not something to be worried about in the short term. Children can flit very quickly between periods of intense distress and calm, one moment sobbing and seemingly inconsolable and the next asking if they can go and play or watch television. This is entirely normal and is their way of coping with intense situations. Watch our short animated film, Puddle Jumping , for more on how young children cope with difficult feelings.

Should I talk to my child about what has happened?

Sometimes adults try to protect children by avoiding any discussion about the event. They worry about further upsetting their child or making things worse. However, children and young people usually find it helpful to talk about what has happened. Talking about the things that have frightened them can enable children to make sense of what has happened and help them become less fearful and more likely to share how they are feeling.

Adults can help by gauging when a child is ready to talk and sensitively choosing the right moment. As one child told us:

It helps to know why everyone in the family is sad and worried because when you don't know what is happening, you can't help thinking it is your fault.

What should I say to my child?

Make time to explain to your child what has happened using age-appropriate language which is suitable for their level of understanding .

Be open and honest even if some of the details are difficult but don't overload with too much information as this can be overwhelming. A frightening event can be even more difficult to cope with for a child if they sense adults are reluctant to answer their questions.

Explain things in a simple, direct way. A child does not need all the details at once and can gradually take on more information over time and will ask if they need to know more.

Tell your child that these events are extremely rare and that's why we hear about them on the news when they happen. Try to avoid talking about 'bad people' as this can be particularly frightening for children. Refer instead to 'bad acts' or 'sad events'. Give lots of calm reassurance.

For younger children, you might say:

'Something really sad happened in London today. A man drove his car into a crowd and some people were killed. There is a lot on the television about it because these kinds of things are unusual and don't happen very often. Lots of people are talking about it because it is so sad that it happened.'

Older children may have more questions and need more details about the event.

What can I do to help my child cope with what has happened?

Keep to daily routines such as school, leisure activities, bedtimes and mealtimes. Getting back to a 'normal' routine, as far as this is possible, is reassuring as it makes life feel consistent and predictable and helps children feel safe and secure. Try to manage your own anxiety so that you can provide calm reassurance to your child about their own safety.

Give your child opportunities to talk about what has happened and encourage them to ask questions, without forcing them to talk. It can also help to find ways for them to express their feelings through art and craft activities. You could make a 'scream box' for your child to shout into; you might provide a cushion for your child to punch or encourage them to try something physical such as stamping feet or running and jumping to release any feelings of anger. Older children may find doing something physical like playing football or going for a walk helpful. Finding time to do fun or relaxing things together can also be helpful.

Let them know their reactions are normal and are to be expected after such an event and that it is most likely that the intensity of their feelings will reduce over time.

Give your child plenty of reassurance, offer more hugs than usual and find something comforting such as a blanket or soft toy to encourage feelings of security.

After a frightening event, how can I help my child with worries about themself and others?

Children can worry that they or someone close to them might also be hurt or involved in a frightening event. Although you cannot offer definite reassurance that this will not happen, it can be helpful to stress the rarity of such events. If a child starts to ask more about death and dying, there are many books available that can help with a frank discussion and introduce the topic in an age-appropriate way. Adolescents and teenagers will be more aware of shocking or upsetting events from social media, but much of what they hear may be sensationalised and they may be exposed to rumour and speculation. A death by murder or manslaughter or reinforces the feeling that the world is a scary and dangerous place and repeated reference to such events can give the impression that they are a more common occurrence than is really the case. For more on supporting a child when someone dies suddenly, see our resource on sudden death, including accidents, suicide and homicide. It is important to reassure your child that these incidents are relatively rare and that is why we hear about them in the media. See our resource for more on explaining to a child that someone has died .

How can I help my child cope with frightening world events?

If a large-scale disaster such as an earthquake or a terrorist attack has happened in a particular area or country, and is shown in the media, this may be discussed at your child's school. You can ask your child's school how the topic is being managed within school and what information has been shared so that you can discuss it with your child and address any anxieties they may have. You may find it helpful to direct your child's school to our online resources for schools .

How can I look after myself after a frightening event?

Supporting a child after a frightening event can be difficult particularly when you are, understandably, also upset about what has happened and are struggling with your own reactions. Children are quick to pick up on the distress of adults around them even if the adults are trying to hide their feelings. Looking after your own wellbeing is important, helping you to cope with your own feelings and in turn support your child. You may find it helpful to look at our resource on looking after yourself when someone has died.

How can I get support for my child after a frightening event?

Many conflicting and mixed emotions are to be expected in the short term after a frightening event has happened and most children will show some signs of upset. However, if your child continues to be very distressed over a lasting period, or if their behaviour or emotional state is affecting everyday activities or causing concern, you may find it helpful to discuss it with your Health Visitor or GP. They may be able to advise you on who can provide some further support. For support for a bereaved child after a frightening event, you can contact us via our Helpline or Live Chat.

Visit our page: How we can support you for more on our services.

You can also call our Helpline 0800 02 888 40, email [email protected] , or use Live Chat on our website.

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charity bereavement child death grief loss baby stillbirth miscarriage suicide young people parents

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Supporting a child after a frightening event

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Ways in which adults can support children worried about frightening events, including those reported in the media.

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We help children, young people, parents, and families to rebuild their lives when a child grieves or when a child dies.