There is no doubt that growing up can be an emotional rollercoaster for many young people, and it can be difficult for a parent or carer to identify when a child’s behaviour is related to a mental health condition, and when they may need specialist support.  Youngsters can face a whole host of highs and lows during childhood and adolescence, as well as a wide range of unique pressures which can be related to school, friends, family, bullying, cyber bullying, social media, peer pressure, sexuality and puberty.

 

Young people may struggle emotionally and engage in unhealthy behaviours, and a proportion may go on to develop a persistent mental health problem such as anxiety, depression, stress or eating disorders.

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It is important to recognise that mental health difficulties don’t just affect adults; in fact, they are becoming increasingly common in children and young people. Recent studies suggest that nearly one in four young people will experience the symptoms of a mental health condition before they reach the age of 19.