Spotlight on young people’s struggles with mental health
A TEENAGER joined Prime Minister Theresa May as she launched a new awareness course to help youngsters improve their mental health.
Mrs May has unveiled a new National Citizen Service (NCS) course as part of efforts to help teenagers struggling with exam pressure, self-esteem or other issues.
She said the NCS, which was set up by David Cameron, played a key role in early intervention and giving young people the confidence to access mental health support.
Alex Elliott-Smith, of Ponteland, was among the teenagers who have either graduated or are currently on the NCS scheme to meet Mrs May.
Alex, 18, said: “Mental health has a very large stigma attached to it, particularly with older generations.
“A doctor will recommend exercise for someone who doesn’t have the motivation to leave bed.
“That can be a very isolating experience and make a sufferer very alone in what they are experiencing.
“As part of the NCS Regional Youth Board I worked with If U Care Share, we carried out five mental health workshops in Durham to encourage mental wellbeing.
“We have since created a booklet full of major signs, ways to get help and how to support a sufferer. I have been nominated for a Streetwise Inspirational Youth Award for my work.”
Mrs May said the awareness course would help young people both inside and outside of the classroom.
“It is not only the pressures of school and exams, though that is in the front of our minds today, but also self-esteem issues, struggles with home life or friendships, and getting into university or finding a job that can all affect mental wellbeing,” she added.
“We know that early intervention, along with giving young people the confidence to access support, is key – that’s where NCS plays such a vital role.
“NCS helps young people forge friendships across social divides and enhance their confidence and self-esteem.”
The course will be developed with mental health experts and NCS graduates.
And it will include mental health training for more than 10,000 NCS staff and a new network of graduates from the scheme to champion mental health awareness.
Since 2011, more than 300,000 16-yearolds and 17-year-olds have taken part in NCS, usually on four-week summer residential courses and community projects.
In 2016, 93,000 people participated in the programme.
Michael Lynas, chief executive of NCS, said: “As our country’s flagship programme for 16-year-olds, we know just how important the issue of mental health is to this age group and we hope this initiative will help the next generation to live healthier and happier lives.”