Worried About Your Child's Mental Health? You're Not Alone

More children and young people than ever are being referred to mental health services in the UK. Pressures from social media, peer groups, academic stress and worries about the future are leaving many young people feeling overwhelmed and anxious.



Here's the hopeful part: there has never been more help available — if you know where to look. This page brings together trusted organisations, helplines and apps for any parent or carer worried about a young person's mental health.

What can I do if I think my child is struggling?

Start with a gentle, open conversation. Listen without judgement, take what they say seriously, and let them know you're on their side. If you're worried their life is in immediate danger, call 999. Our I Need Help Now page has more support.

If your child has experienced suicidal thoughts or has attempted to end their own life, the US-made film "After Your Child's Suicide Attempt" may help. Parents share their own stories, explain what to expect in the days and weeks after a crisis, and — most importantly — talk about hope, effective treatment and how to support your child and family. Some services mentioned are US-only, but the messages travel well.

Helplines and charities for young people's mental health

•  Stem4 — promotes positive teenage mental health through education, resilience strategies, early intervention and clinically informed apps.
• YoungMinds — one of the UK's leading charities for children and young people's mental health, with resources for pupils, parents and schools.
• Family Lives — a national charity offering a free helpline, email, live chat and WhatsApp support on any aspect of parenting and family life.
  

Helpful apps for teenage mental health

• Tellmi — a safe, anonymous app where young people can talk about anything, with everything checked by moderators and in-house counsellors on hand.
• Kooth — free, safe, anonymous online support for young people, with chat, messaging, goal-setting and a friendly online team.
• Calm Harm — developed by Consultant Clinical Psychologist Dr Nihara Krause for Stem4, helping teenagers ride out the urge to self-harm until it subsides.
• Stay Alive (by Grassroots) — a pocket suicide prevention resource for the UK, useful whether you're worried about yourself or someone else.
• Hidden Strength UK — support, advice and guidance for ages 13–24, from peers and qualified therapists, online 7 days a week, 7am–9pm.
  

Resources for younger children

The My Emotions Activity Book by Laura Helen Brown of LHB Illustrations is a free resource that helps primary-age children talk about their feelings creatively. Trialled with Key Stage 2 children and approved by education professionals, it comes with a free lesson plan.

You don't have to carry this alone

Worry about a child can feel all-consuming, but with the right support, young people can and do recover