1.4. Identify ways to support children and young people to recognise risk factors and signs of distress in themselves

This guide will help you answer 1.4. Identify ways to support children and young people to recognise risk factors and signs of distress in themselves.

Empowering children and young people to understand their mental health is key. Recognising risk factors and signs of distress is a vital part of this understanding. As a professional working with young people, you play a central role in providing support and guidance. Here are ways you can help them recognise when they might be struggling.

Open and Honest Communication

Creating an environment where young people feel safe to express their thoughts and feelings encourages self-awareness. It’s important to communicate openly and honestly, using age-appropriate language.

• Active Listening: Give the child or young person your full attention. Show interest and listen without interrupting.
• Empathy: Validate their feelings. Let them know it’s okay to feel upset or anxious.
• Encourage Questions: Invite them to ask questions about their feelings. This can help them better understand what’s happening inside them.

Education on Mental Health

Providing education about mental health helps demystify it. Understanding that mental health is just as important as physical health can empower young people.

• Workshops and Sessions: Organise workshops about common mental health issues affecting young people.
• Resources: Share books, websites, or videos that explain mental health in an accessible way.
• Discussions: Facilitate classroom or group discussions about mental health to normalise the conversation.

Teaching Emotional Literacy

Emotional literacy refers to the ability to recognise and understand one’s own emotions. This can be developed through various activities and lessons.

• Feelings Chart: Use a chart or wheel depicting various emotions. Help children identify and label their feelings.
• Journaling: Encourage them to keep a diary of how they feel each day.
• Role-play: Use scenarios where they identify how a character might feel and why.

Identifying Common Risk Factors

Knowing the risk factors for mental health issues can help young people understand why they might be feeling distressed.

• Environmental Factors: Discuss the influence of family dynamics, school pressure, or peer relationships.
• Personal Factors: Touch on aspects such as low self-esteem, chronic physical illness, or neurological differences.
• Traumatic Events: Explain how experiences like bullying or a family bereavement can impact mental health.

Recognising Signs of Distress

Teach young people to notice signs that might indicate they are experiencing distress.

• Behavioural Changes: Notice any withdrawal from social situations or changes in sleeping or eating habits.
• Emotional Changes: Be aware of sudden mood swings or increased irritability.
• Physical Symptoms: Explain how headaches or stomach aches can sometimes be linked to stress or anxiety.

Encouraging Self-Care Practices

Self-care is about taking steps to preserve one’s mental health. Encourage young people to adopt self-care habits regularly.

• Relaxation Techniques: Teach them breathing exercises or mindfulness meditation.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Promote regular physical activity, nutritious eating, and adequate rest.
• Boundaries: Help them understand the importance of setting limits in relationships or with schoolwork to prevent burnout.

Promoting Help-Seeking Behaviour

Young people should know when and how to ask for help.

• Normalise Seeking Help: Reinforce that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
• Identify Trusted Adults: Help them decide which adults they can approach if they feel distressed.
• Professional Support: Inform them about available mental health services like school counsellors or local health services.

Building Resilience

Resilience is the ability to bounce back from adversity. By teaching resilience, you enable children and young people to cope better with challenges.

• Problem-Solving Skills: Encourage them to think of solutions to problems and how to act on them.
• Positive Self-talk: Teach them to replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations.
• Support Networks: Highlight the value of supportive friends and family in facing difficulties.

Age-Appropriate Techniques

Tailor your approach based on the age and maturity of the young person.

• Young Children: Use stories, games, and creative activities to teach them about emotions.
• Teenagers: Encourage open dialogue and provide information about mental health apps and online resources.
• Transition Ages: Provide support and guidance specific to periods of transition such as moving schools or going to university.

Safety and Supportive Environment

Create a space where young people feel protected and supported.

• Safe Spaces: Designate areas where they can go if they need to calm down or talk.
• Consistent Support: Offer regular check-ins to gauge their mental well-being.

Role of Education Professionals

If you work in a school or educational setting, you have daily interactions with children and young people. Use this position to support their mental health.

• Observations: Be attentive to changes in behaviour or mood that might signal distress.
• Collaborate with Families: Work with parents to share observations and strategies.
• Professional Development: Engage in training to keep your skills updated.

Safeguarding and Confidentiality

While supporting young people’s mental health, protect their confidentiality. However, be aware of safeguarding procedures if they are at risk.

• Confidential Discussions: Keep private any disclosures they make about their well-being.
• Safeguarding Protocols: Follow your organisation’s policies if you believe a young person is at risk of harm.

Involvement of Peers

Peers can play a supportive role in recognising and addressing distress.

• Peer Support Groups: Facilitate group discussions where peers can share experiences and solutions.
• Peer Mentorship: Encourage older students to mentor younger ones about handling stress and emotions.

Role of Volunteers and Community

Volunteers and community organisations can offer additional support.

• Community Projects: Engage young people in community activities that promote social connections and well-being.
• Resource Sharing: Collaborate with community groups to share resources and information on mental health support.

Continuous Evaluation and Feedback

To provide effective support, regularly evaluate the strategies you use.

• Feedback from Young People: Ask them what’s working and what isn’t.
• Adjust Strategies: Be flexible in adjusting approaches based on feedback.

To support children and young people adequately, ensure they understand their mental health intricacies. You are in a crucial position to guide them. Your role is invaluable in helping them lead healthier, happier lives.