Kellie Ann Fitzgerald, NSPCC Assistant Director for London and the South East shares this important reminder for parents and carers. Ed
This week (9th-15th May), marks Mental Health Awareness Week, and the theme this year is loneliness.
The NSPCC’s service Childline often hears from children who are struggling with loneliness and isolation, and during the pandemic these feelings were heightened for many young people.
It can be difficult for parents and carers to recognise when their child may be struggling with their mental health, and equally difficult for them to know how to offer their support.
Start a conversation with your children
This Mental Health Awareness Week, we would encourage your readers to take the opportunity to start a conversation with their children about how they are feeling and if they have any worries.
If a child is feeling lonely or struggling with their mental health, it’s important that they know they can talk to a trusted adult about their feelings, and they will be listened to and what they say will be valued.
Get in touch 24/7
Children and young people can also get in contact with our Childline counsellors on the phone or online, around the clock, every day of the year.
If they do not feel ready or comfortable to talk to one of our trained counsellors, our Childline Website has lots of resources for children and young people, such as our moderated message boards which provide a safe space for them to connect with their peers, as well as the Artbox and Calm Zone.
Find out more
There’s more advice and information for parents on the NSPCC Website and readers can email [email protected] for further support.
Children can call Childline on 0800 1111 or they can get in touch via Childline Website.
Image: priscilla du preez under CC BY 2.0
