It is normal to experience challenges when growing up, particularly during adolescence, times of transition (e.g. moving to a new school), or when there has been a significant loss, such as a death in the family or when parents have separated. In almost all situations, children and young people’s mental wellbeing is best supported by those closest to them, particularly parents, family members, friends, and other key adults such as school staff.

Through these relationships, your child will learn coping strategies along the way that help them to manage difficult times in the future. Some children and young people will experience times when they need additional or specialist support. This may be because of the impact of what they have experienced, such as loss, trauma, neglect or abuse.