Why do children and young people struggle with their mental health?

Children and young people face growing pressures from school, social media, identity, and relationships, often without the tools or language to understand big emotions. This can make coping day to day feel overwhelming. With the right support, they can learn to manage these challenges and thrive.

How does it impact on them in later life?

When mental health difficulties aren’t recognised or supported early on, they can affect confidence, relationships, education, and how someone copes with stress in adulthood. People may carry patterns of anxiety, low self-esteem, or avoidance into later life, but early understanding and support can make a huge difference, helping build resilience, healthier relationships and better long-term wellbeing.

How can we engage with children and young people on the topic of mental health?

They key is to make it real, relatable, and safe. We need to start by listening more than talking and letting them share their experiences without judgment. We have to use language, activities, and tools they connect with, whether it’s with games, creative projects or something else. We need to normalise mental health conversations and show that it’s okay to struggle but also give practical ways to cope. It’s also important to make sure that they know support is there when they need it.

What can be done now to support people with their mental health?

Coventry, Warwickshire and Worcestershire Mind support mental health through drop-in wellbeing hubs, one-to-one emotional support, peer groups, and a 24/7 Mental Wellbeing Line. We also offer children and young people’s services and training for teachers and professionals, helping everyone to build coping skills, resilience, and access support when they need it.