Supporting Children & Young People

What we know:

Navigating the ups and downs of growing up can be challenging. For children and young people, emotional struggles such as anxiety, stress, and feelings of being overwhelmed are not uncommon.


Recent statistics from the NHS highlight the increasing need for mental health support among young people in the UK. In 2023, approximately 1 in 5 children and young people aged 8 to 25 years had a probable mental disorder. This prevalence was 20.3% among 8 to 16-year-olds and 23.3% among 17 to 19-year-olds. (NHS Digital)


In Scotland, the mental health of children and young people has been a growing concern. Research indicates that rates of mental health issues among 5 to 15-year-olds increased from 9.7% in 1999 to 11.2% in 2017. (Mental Health Foundation)

Early intervention:

Early intervention means addressing mental health concerns as soon as they begin to arise, rather than waiting for problems to escalate. It focuses on identifying warning signs, such as changes in mood, behaviour, or performance, and providing support before these challenges grow into more significant difficulties. Organisations such as Mind and YoungMinds emphasise the importance of early intervention.


Early intervention is about recognising when a child might benefit from extra support and taking steps to provide it in a timely and appropriate manner. Counselling offers a space where children and young people can explore their feelings and build resilience to handle future challenges.

What Can Counselling Help With?

Counselling is a form of support that can help children and young people with a range of issues, including:

  • Anxiety and Stress: Managing feelings of worry and tension that may affect daily life.
  • Grief and Loss: Processing the death of a loved one or other significant losses.
  • Family Changes: Navigating parents separating or other changes in family dynamics.
  • Bullying and Peer Pressure: Building resilience and self-confidence in social settings.
  • Identity and Self-Esteem: Exploring self-worth, identity, and personal growth.
  • Trauma: Processing difficult experiences in a safe and supportive space.

Creating a Safe and Supportive Space

One of the most important aspects of counselling is the relationship between the counsellor and the client. For children, it’s crucial they feel comfortable and free to express themselves without fear of judgment. It is also really important that the child isn’t pressured into accessing support, for counselling to be effective.


In my approach to counselling I work to build trust and provide a space where children and young people can explore their feelings at their own pace.

Is Counselling Right for Your Child?

If you’re feeling worried about your child’s mental health or emotional well-being, counselling could provide the support they need. It’s essential to find the right fit—a counsellor your child feels comfortable with and an approach that resonates with their needs. If you’d like to learn more about how counselling can support your child, or if you’re unsure whether it’s the right time to start, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. I am always happy to talk over the phone first at no charge to discuss your childs needs and answer any questions.

References:

Mind. (n.d.). Children and young people and mental health. Retrieved from https://www.mind.org.uk


YoungMinds. (n.d.). Why early intervention is key for children’s mental health. Retrieved from https://www.youngminds.org.uk


NHS England. Mental Health of Children and Young People in England, 2023 - wave 4 follow up to the 2017 survey. Retrieved from https://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/publications/statistical/mental-health-of-children-and-young-people-in-england/2023-wave-4-follow-up?utm_


Mental Health Foundation Scotland. State of a generation: Preventing mental health problems in children and young people. Retrived from https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/sites/default/files/2022-08/MHF-Scotland-state-of-a-generation-children-young-people-report-2019.pdf?utm_

Contact Emily:

Tel: 07700 391151

Email: talk@brighterdays.je

Open Hours

Wednesday 5pm - 8pm

Thursday 5pm - 8pm

Location

Suite 19 Bourne House

Francis Street

St Helier, Jersey

JE2 4QB

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