Weekly Topic

Mental Health in UK Schools: How to Ask for Help and Support Young People

 

Mental health is an increasingly important topic within UK schools, as growing numbers of children and young people face emotional and psychological challenges. Creating a supportive environment where pupils feel safe and empowered to ask for help is essential for their well-being and academic success. This article explores what teachers and parents can do to support children’s mental health, and how children themselves can learn to seek help effectively.

 

Understanding the Importance of Mental Health in Schools

Mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and stress can significantly impact a young person’s development and learning. According to recent statistics, one in six children aged 5 to 16 experience a mental health problem. Many of these challenges first surface during school years, making the school setting a crucial place to identify and address difficulties.

Teachers and parents play pivotal roles in recognising early signs of mental health struggles and providing reassurance that asking for help is both normal and encouraged.

 

What Teachers Can Do

Create a Supportive Classroom Environment

Teachers can foster an atmosphere where mental health is openly discussed. Incorporating wellbeing activities, mindfulness exercises, or regular check-ins can normalise conversations about feelings and stress.

Provide Clear Information on How to Ask for Help

Teaching children specific ways to ask for help equips them with the language and confidence needed. Teachers might introduce phrases such as “I’m finding this hard,” or “Can I talk to you about something?” Role-playing scenarios can help pupils practise these skills.

Recognise Warning Signs and Refer Appropriately

Educators should be vigilant for signs of distress—withdrawal, mood changes, or declining work—and know the school’s policy on mental health support, including referrals to counsellors or external services.

Communicate with Parents

Regular communication with parents helps form a network of support around the child. Sharing observations and resources empowers families to reinforce positive mental health strategies at home.

What Parents Can Do

Encourage Open Communication

Parents should create a safe space for their children to express emotions without fear of judgement. Asking open-ended questions about their day and feelings shows that it’s okay to talk about struggles.

 

Teach Children How to Ask for Help

Parents can practise conversations at home where children can rehearse saying phrases like “I need support” or “Can you help me?” Teaching them that adults such as teachers, school counsellors, or family members are there to help reduces the stigma around mental health.

Collaborate Closely with School Staff

Maintaining an open dialogue with teachers allows parents to track their child’s mental wellbeing and progress. Parents can also advocate for additional support if necessary.

 

Provide Resources and Access to Professional Help

Parents should be aware of resources such as the NHS mental health services, Childline, or local support charities, and encourage their child to reach out when needed.

 

How Children Can Ask for Help

For children, asking for help can sometimes feel daunting. However, empowering young people with simple strategies makes a big difference:

 

Identify Trusted Adults: Children should be encouraged to think about who they feel comfortable talking to—this might be a teacher, parent, school nurse, or friend.

Use Clear Language: Teaching children to say exactly what they feel helps adults understand and respond effectively.

Write it Down: If speaking is too difficult, writing a letter or note can be an easier way to express feelings.

Ask During Safe Moments: Children might choose to ask for help during breaks, after class, or during one-on-one time rather than in front of peers.

 

Remember It’s Okay to Ask More Than Once: Sometimes it takes several attempts before someone listens or help is arranged.

 

Mental health in UK schools is a collective responsibility that requires the combined efforts of teachers, parents, and pupils. By fostering understanding, encouraging open communication, and providing clear ways for children to ask for help, schools and families can create an environment where young people’s mental well-being is prioritised. When children know how and where to ask for help, they are better equipped to overcome challenges and thrive both in and out of the classroom.

 

Big news for young people's mental health in England

The Government has announced that every pupil in England will have access to a Mental Health Support Team (MHST) by 2029/30—with 60% covered by 2026.

MHSTs are specially trained professionals working in schools to support students with mild to moderate mental health difficulties. This £49 million investment could make a real difference by offering early support before things reach crisis point.

This is a hugely welcome step forward.

But let’s be clear: improving school-based mental health support goes beyond just adding support teams.

If we truly want to protect young people’s wellbeing, we also need to rethink how schools approach things like exams, pressure, and behaviour policies.

This is a strong start—now let’s keep going.