Mental Health & Wellbeing Resources

It is important that children and young adults are encouraged and supported to look after their mental health. 

We've shared some resources, links and guidance below from a range of mental health organisations offering advice on how you can help your child do this.

Tips from the Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust

Routine 

Humans tend to like routine. Our bodies appreciate it, and our minds can be
calmed by the predictability of it. It is important, though, to create a new routine that includes the important daily activities, such as those below. Make one together that works for you.

Eat well    

Being at home more might mean easier access to treats. These can make your mood and energy levels fluctuate. Try to keep a mealtime routine and choose foods that will nourish the mind and body. Visit the NHS website for tips and ideas. 

Sleep well 

Quality sleep promotes good emotional wellbeing and has a number of physical benefits for your body. Try to keep a good bedtime routine throughout the week. Young minds have put together some tips and advice. 

Keep active

Meaningful activity is important for mental health. This means doing things that you enjoy and get a sense of achievement out of. This can be anything from creating your own board game to having a home disco or getting creative with arts and crafts.  Schedule in some daily physical activity- lots of families have been taking part in the BBC Children in Need with Joe Wicks videos. 

Keep learning   

Learning is good for confidence and can reduce boredom.  Plan learning into every day. You could develop your own virtual learning community with school friends and help each other with work.

Keep in touch with friends and family      

Social distancing is very important at the moment but we understand that it can have a negative impact. Video calls, emails and social media are examples of how to stay in touch with friends and family safely. Click here to learn how to stay safe online. 

Stay informed, not overwhelmed  

The media is focusing on health updates at the moment. Whilst it is important to keep updated, it can be worrying to hear so much about it. If you’re feeling overwhelmed it is a good idea to restrict your use of social media and the news.

Resources to support mental health and wellbeing 

Click on the images below to be directed to the website: 

 

National Domestic Abuse website

National Domestic Abuse Helpline 

Self isolating and dealing with conflict

With the current Covid-19 outbreak and government recommendations to limit
social contact, people will be spending more time at home than they are used to.

This may mean spending more time with your family and could create difficult situations, especially for those coping with pre-existing family problems.

The Children's Society has produced top tips to help parents and carers dealing with conflict at home.