SUPPORTING THE MENTAL HEALTH OF CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE
Children and young people can struggle with their mental health for many reasons — from school pressures and social challenges to identity, family changes, or difficulties linked to SEND and neurodivergence. These experiences can affect how they feel about themselves, how they engage in school or friendships, and how they cope day to day.
The earlier the right support is in place, the better their chances of feeling secure, building resilience, and thriving in all areas of life. As parents and carers, you are often the first to notice when something isn’t quite right — and your support makes all the difference.
While every child is different, here are some signs that may suggest a young person is struggling with their mental health:
Becoming withdrawn or unusually quiet
Sudden changes in mood or behaviour
Trouble sleeping or changes in appetite
School refusal or frequent complaints of physical symptoms (e.g., headaches, stomach aches)
Increased anxiety, worry, or panic
Expressing low self-worth or feeling "different"
Difficulty with friendships or social interactions
Talking about self-harm, hopelessness, or not wanting to be here
Overwhelm related to sensory experiences or transitions (common in neurodivergent children)
If you're concerned, trust your instincts — it's okay to ask for help.
If you’re worried about your child’s mental health, here are some starting points:
Your GP – Can make referrals to CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) or other services
School SENCo or pastoral team – They can offer in-school support or adjustments
CAMHS / Local Mental Health Teams – Specialist mental health support for under-18s
Parent-led organisations like RANi – Peer support and guidance from people who understand
Helplines and online support (see suggestions below)
CAMHS is a specialist NHS service for children with moderate to severe mental health difficulties such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, eating disorders, and more.
• Referral: Through your GP, school, or social worker
• Age: Up to 18
• Waiting times can vary — ask about urgent support if needed
An online mental health community that offers:
• Anonymous live chat with counsellors
• Peer forums & self-help tools
• Articles written by young people
A leading mental health charity for children, teens and their families.
• Parent Helpline: 0808 802 5544 (Mon–Fri, 9:30am–4pm)
• Crisis Messenger: Text YM to 85258 for free, 24/7 support
• Guides on anxiety, ADHD, self-harm, school refusal, and more
A free, confidential helpline and live chat platform for young people dealing with mental health, relationships, housing, money, and more.
• Helpline: 0808 808 4994
• 1-2-1 chat and discussion boards available
Most schools offer:
• School counsellors
• Mental Health Support Teams (MHST)
• Pastoral care & SENCO support
Speak to your child’s teacher or SENCO if you're concerned. You can ask about mental health referrals, ELSA (Emotional Literacy Support Assistants), or wellbeing hubs.
Children and young people with SEND may experience or express mental health needs differently. You may want to look for services with specialist understanding of:
• Autism
• ADHD
• Sensory processing differences
• Learning disabilities
Services such as Healthy Young Minds, Child Psychology Services, or local neurodivergence support groups can help. RANi can signpost you to relevant services and parent networks.
Anna Freud Centre – Practical guides and videos on children’s mental health
MindEd for Families – Free mental health learning for parents
Contact – SEND support and mental wellbeing guidance
A children’s mental health charity that works directly in schools to offer emotional and therapeutic support.
• Great for early intervention and whole-school wellbeing.
A free, confidential 24/7 text service for anyone in a mental health crisis.
• Text SHOUT to 85258
A confidential helpline for children and young people to talk about anything on their mind.
• Call 0800 1111 (24/7, free)
• 1-to-1 online chat, message boards, and wellbeing resources
Suicide prevention charity offering support to young people experiencing suicidal thoughts and their families.
• Call 0800 068 4141
• Text 07860 039 967
• Email: pat@papyrus-uk.org
A Greater Manchester charity supporting young people with their emotional wellbeing through counselling, creative therapies, and group work.
• Self-referral available
• Face-to-face and online support
Offers early help and community support including youth mental health sessions, parenting workshops, and mentoring.
• Based in Harpurhey, Manchester
https://www.gmmh.nhs.uk/no-93/
Offers rapid response and home treatment for children and young people up to 18 experiencing a mental health crisis in Manchester, Salford, and Trafford.
Specializes in supporting 16-17-year-olds with mental health needs in Manchester and Salford.
• Phone: 0161 549 6055
• Email: Cmm-tr.emerge.cmft@nhs.net
Supports young people dealing with substance misuse issues or affected by someone else's substance use.
• Phone: 0161 723 3880
• Email: info@earlybreak.co.uk
A 24-hour service providing immediate support for mental health crises.
• Phone: 111 (select the mental health option)
Offers resources and support for young people facing mental health challenges.
• Phone: 0161 769 5732
At RANi, we understand how confusing it can be to find the right support.
We offer:
Guidance on adult social care referrals
Signposting to mental health and neurodiversity-friendly services
Peer support for carers of under-18s
If you require assistance in being directed to the appropriate support services, please do not hesitate to contact us. You are not alone.