Mental health advice for returning pupils
ADVICE has been issued by health chiefs for young people who have returned to school after the summer holidays.
They say it is important to get help early if you think your child may be depressed. The longer it goes on, the more likely it is to disrupt your child’s life and turn into a long-term problem.
Sarah Tebbett, quality lead for public health (school) nursing at Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust, said: “It can be hard for parents to tell the difference between behaviours that are part of normal development, and those that signal real underlying unhappiness.
“Being patient and calm, and letting kids know that you will listen when they want to talk is important. Younger children may find it helpful to write down their worries and post them in a special ‘worry box’ which can keep hold of the worries, so they don’t have to. Parents can then find a good time to talk the worries through with them.”
Some signs of depression in children can include having trouble sleeping or sleeping more than usual, eating less than usual or overeating, or being unable to relax, concentrate or make decisions. Headaches and stomach aches may be physical symptoms of anxiety.
A teacher may be able to deal with the problem or may involve a school counsellor or welfare worker depending on the situation. Alternatively, book an appointment to see your GP who may suggest a referral to a mental health service specialising in supporting young people.
More advice can be found at Health for Kids (www.healthforkids. Health for Teens (www.healthforteens.co.uk/ feelings), YoungMinds (www. youngminds.org.uk), Childline (www.childline.org.uk), www.nhs. uk/ conditions/ stress- anxietydepression/ talking- to- childrenabout-feelings and www.nhs.uk/ conditions/stress-anxiety-depression/