More than 850,000 children and young people in the UK have been diagnosed with a

mental health condition, you are not alone.

Young Minds offer advice and resources for young people.

The Time to Change website has real life stories and celebrity pledges to help end the

stigma of mental health.

Don’t call me crazy BBC http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p01b86w5

Depression http://www.mind.org.uk/blog/8784_depression_the_enemy_within

OCDhttp://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-23412085

http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/stress-anxiety-depression/Pages/improve-mental-wellbeing.a

spx-

Young minds http://www.youngminds.org.uk/

Self Harm http://www.bbc.co.uk/learningzone/clips/coping-with-self-harm/11900.html

Mind http://www.mind.org.uk/mental_health_a-z/8006_self-harm

Harmless: http://www.harmless.org.uk/

Self-harm can feel like a scary subject, but it’s an important one to learn about. With approximately 17% of teens reporting at least one instance of self-harm, parents and carers need to know how to help their children cope with the difficult feelings that can lead to this destructive behaviour. It’s important to note that self-harm does not always indicate suicidal ideations or intent; sometimes it can be a way for a young person to release frustration or other negative feelings they’re struggling with.

Many behaviours can fall under this category, including hair pulling, cutting, burning, drug or alcohol abuse and eating disorders. Whilst mental illness, stress and traumatic experiences may increase the likelihood of a teen self-harming, there’s no one reason why some people turn to this as a coping mechanism. As such, a kind, understanding and non-judgmental approach is paramount.

This insightful resource from Zocdoc helps to explain the parameters of what is considered self-harm, as well as common signs to look out for. It also offers helpful tips on appropriate intervention strategies, and how carers and parents can help and support teens struggling with self-harming behaviours. From beginning to understand the signs and symptoms of self-harm to diagnosing any potential underlying issues, this guide is a valuable place to start for anyone looking to educate themselves on this sensitive topic.

In general, eating disorders develop over time, sometimes over years, and often at a point

when life brings fear and insecurity.

anorexiabulimiacare.org.uk

Eating disorders

Food and Mood

The Academy sets out with the goal of encouraging positive relationships. We and other

agencies will support you who, through no fault of your own, find yourself in need of

counselling, advice and emotional guidance.

Personal safety is about the responsibility you have to take for your own safety, whether

that is travelling to and from the Academy, or when you are out and about with friends.

Make sure you stay with friends, you keep in touch with your parents, and you are where

you say you are going to be. Think about your safety on the internet too. Stay safe at all

times.

For general information, advice and support for you or someone else you know who may

have a drug problem, you can go to Talk To Frank.

The Fearless website also has information on Drugs, Alcohol Cyber Crime, Violence and

Theft.

Drugs

At Quarrydale  Academy we are strongly opposed to the misuse of all kinds of drugs by the

Academy community. However, we recognise that many drugs, including tobacco and

alcohol are increasingly available to young people. The websites listed here explain the

dangers and risks of drugs that we all need to be aware of.

Useful Links:

https://www.talktofrank.com/ – drug and alcohol advice and guidance.

Hope UK: http://www.hopeuk.org/

Drink aware: http://www.drinkaware.co.uk/

NHS Smokefree: http://smokefree.nhs.uk/

Drug free world: http://www.drugfreeworld.org/

Homophobia: stonewall:

http://www.stonewall.org.uk/at_home/sexual_orientation_faqs/2697.asp

Gov.uk - Helpful suggestions about supporting children's mental health and wellbeing during the coronavirus crisis

Social Media

Gaming

Sleep

Talking to children and young people about Coronavirus (Covid-19)

Quaranteened-helping teenagers cope with lockdown

Childline online counselling support

Kooth - free anonymous online counselling support for young people.

Tips on gaining confidence, blasting anxiety and general life stuff from the people who’ve been there. Created by young people for young people, the Rise Above website is a great place to go if you are aged 11 to 16. There is much information to equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to make informed decisions, and help deal with the pressures of growing up.

Mindfulness and relaxation

Hope Again –  A national charity that provides support, advice and information to children, young people and adults when someone close to them dies.