1.1. Define the terms: • mental health • mental ill health • resilience • self-esteem

This guide will help you answer 1.1. Define the terms: • mental health • mental ill health • resilience • self-esteem.

Definition of Mental Health

Mental health refers to our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act in everyday life. Good mental health in children and young people enables them to develop resilience to cope with whatever life throws at them. It helps them to realise their capabilities, work productively, and make contributions to their community. Understanding mental health is essential for parents, teachers, and caregivers to support children and young people in their journey towards mental well-being. It involves creating a nurturing and supportive environment where they feel comfortable expressing their emotions and seeking help when needed. By promoting understanding mental health, we can break the stigma surrounding mental illness and encourage open conversations about mental well-being.

Mental health is about:

• Feeling good about ourselves
• Being able to form and maintain good relationships
• Experiencing a range of emotions
• Coping with change and uncertainty

For people working with children, it’s crucial to recognise signs of both positive and negative mental health. Positive environments and supportive relationships at home, school, and in the community can help foster good mental health.

Definition of Mental Ill Health

Mental ill health refers to the presence of mental health problems that affect how one thinks, feels, and behaves. It might limit a young person’s ability to go about their daily life and interact with others. Mental ill health can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, or background.

Common issues include:

• Anxiety disorders
• Depression
• Eating disorders
• Behavioural disorders, like ADHD

A child or young person experiencing mental ill health might:

• Withdraw from friends and activities
• Have significant mood changes
• Struggle with sleep
• Show changes in appetite
• Display behaviour that seems out of character

Early intervention and appropriate support can make a significant difference in outcomes for young individuals experiencing mental ill health.

Definition of Resilience

Resilience is the ability to cope with and bounce back from difficulties. In young people, it acts like a springboard that empowers them to face challenges, learn from setbacks, and recover from failures. Resilience is not a trait that people either have or don’t; rather, it involves behaviours, thoughts, and actions that can be learned and developed in anyone.

Characteristics of resilient children include:

• A positive attitude towards challenges
• Confidence in their ability to solve problems
• Seeking help and resources when needed
• The ability to manage emotions effectively

Boosting resilience in children and young people often involves creating supportive relationships, teaching coping skills, promoting healthy thinking patterns, and building confidence in their abilities.

Definition of Self-Esteem

Self-esteem refers to the opinion a person has about themselves and the value they place on their own worth. High self-esteem means having a positive view of oneself, while low self-esteem can manifest as self-doubt, negative self-talk, and a lack of confidence. Young people with healthy self-esteem are more likely to try new things, handle conflict better, and form healthy relationships.

Factors influencing self-esteem in children include:

• Parental involvement and support
• Achievement and success in school or extracurricular activities
• Peer relationships and social interactions
• Experiences of success or failure

Creating an environment that provides love, acceptance, and consistency helps to nurture self-esteem. Encouragement, praise for effort rather than outcome, and opportunities for success all contribute positively to a child’s self-esteem.

Considerations for Workers

When working with children and young people, it’s essential to:

• Recognise the signs of both positive and poor mental health
• Create environments that bolster resilience and self-esteem
• Facilitate supportive and nurturing relationships
• Provide early and appropriate interventions
• Encourage open dialogues about emotions and stress

Understanding these terms and their implications is vital in effectively supporting mental health in children and young people. Workers play a critical role in shaping environments that promote mental well-being, resilience, and self-esteem. Your involvement can have a profound impact on the younger generation, helping them navigate their world more confidently and healthily.