Kentish Express Ashford & District
Charity and app offer ways for struggling youngsters to talk
A children’s charity and an app developer are offering ways to encourage youngsters struggling with their mental health to open up.
The NSPCC says Childline has delivered almost 7,000 counselling sessions over the phone to children who have made contact about the Covid-19 pandemic.
Of these calls, three of the four top main concerns relate to mental and emotional health and wellbeing.
An NSPCC spokesman said: “For many young people, the difficult circumstances they were already facing, which can include abuse, domestic violence and difficult family relationships, have been exacerbated during lockdown, leaving them feeling alone and trapped.”
The charity says early signs of depression in children can manifest as persistent low moods, feelings of worthlessness, not enjoying things they used to, becoming withdrawn from loved ones, being regularly tearful and irregular eating or sleeping.
Similar warning signs appear for anxiety, as well as frequent feelings of nervousness and suffering panic attacks.
The NSPCC recommends those caring for children, such as parents and teachers, can offer support by encouraging the child to open up in a calm and reassuring environment where they can be given the facts on coronavirus.
It also advises introducing anxious young people to the Childline’s message boards to talk to others, or to use Childline’s Calm Zone, which provides breathing exercises, coping mechanisms and activities.
Another helpful resource is a recently released free app called ROY, developed by Tom Kent, who grew up in Dover.
The app allows users to ask questions about situations they are struggling with anonymously and also answer questions from others.
The aim of the app is to aid people who feel isolated by creating a supportive community which is overseen by a support team to keep them safe.
Mr Kent says: “I believe that by reaching out for help on an anonymous platform, there is more incentive to say how you really feel.
“The app’s users who reply to you don’t know your history, and as such they can give great feedback, especially if they themselves have encountered something similar to you.
“For anyone struggling with their mental health during lockdown, ROY provides a safe space to seek advice.
“If you’re stuck indoors and are desperate for ideas to keep you busy, ask the app for some advice on that and you might find some really interesting responses.”
Visit www.royapp.org