World Mental Health Day is a crucial reminder for parents and carers to actively support the mental wellbeing of the young people in their lives. It's not just exam season that can cause stress—teenagers and students face a range of pressures throughout the year.

1. Recognise the signs of mental health issues

One of the most important steps in supporting your student’s mental health is to be able to recognise when something might be wrong. Signs of mental health challenges can include:

• Changes in mood or behaviour

• Increased irritability or frustration

• Difficulty sleeping or changes in appetite

• Loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy

• Withdrawal from social interactions

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to open up a conversation with your child. Mental health problems can often go unnoticed, but early intervention and support can make a big difference. If necessary, seek professional help by speaking to a GP, therapist, or mental health charity.

2. Encourage open communication

Encourage your child to express their feelings, whether they’re feeling anxious, sad, or stressed. It’s essential to create a safe space where they feel heard and understood. Let them know that it’s okay to talk about mental health and that you’re there to support them. Even just listening without judgement can help your child feel less alone.

For more guidance on how to start these conversations, check out resources provided by mental health organisations like Young Minds or Mind.

3. Create a calm, supportive environment

The environment at home can play a big role in shaping a young person’s mental health. Strive to create a calm and supportive atmosphere by ensuring your student has a dedicated quiet space to relax or study.

Encourage them to engage in activities that promote relaxation and mental health, such as:

• Exercise, whether it’s a walk or yoga

• Mindfulness or meditation practices

• Creative outlets like drawing, writing, or playing an instrument

• Screen breaks to avoid feeling overwhelmed by technology

A routine that balances rest, play, and learning is key to maintaining a positive mental state.

4. Help them develop coping strategies

Equip your student with healthy coping mechanisms for managing stress, anxiety, or low mood. Strategies could include:

• Deep breathing exercises or mindfulness techniques

• Journaling to help process thoughts and emotions

• Engaging in hobbies or physical activities to release stress

If your child continues to struggle despite these techniques, consider professional mental health support. Counsellors and therapists can provide more personalised coping strategies to manage specific issues. Seeking help is a strength, not a weakness!

5. Celebrate progress and efforts

While academic or extracurricular achievements are often celebrated, it’s equally important to acknowledge the smaller, day-to-day wins that contribute to your student’s wellbeing. Celebrate progress like:

• Overcoming challenges at school

• Trying out new coping strategies

• Reaching out for help when they need it

Acknowledging their efforts fosters a mindset of resilience and self-compassion, helping them build confidence and emotional strength. Your recognition can motivate them to continue taking care of their mental health and to see challenges as opportunities for growth.

World Mental Health Day is a powerful reminder to check in on the young people in our lives and to make mental health a priority every day. Supporting your child’s wellbeing goes beyond just helping them during exam season—it’s about creating habits and environments that nurture emotional resilience all year round.

By recognising the signs of mental health challenges, fostering open communication, creating a supportive environment, encouraging healthy coping mechanisms, and celebrating their progress, you can help your student thrive, not just academically, but emotionally and socially as well.

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