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Children and Young People’s Mental Health and Wellbeing

Thoughts and feelings make up a lot of a daily lives. Children and young people are developing their understanding of thoughts and feelings and this can be challenging. We have collected a set of resources to help families with emotional well being, ranging from finding ways to describe different feelings to managing ‘melt-downs’ when they become too overwhelming. We know that some young people find it hard to express their thoughts and feelings with words and they might show as behaviours. You may also find our page on managing behaviour helpful.

We have also put together a series of videos for parents on Understanding and Managing Difficult Feelings in Autism, to help you in supporting your child with their emotional regulation and behaviour.

Quick Reference and Top Tips

  • A top tips sheet on strategies to help someone with anxiety
  • A top tips sheet on supporting a young person who may be dealing with loss or bereavement
  • A top tips sheet about managing change and transition with strategies
  • A top tips sheet on support young people with ‘meltdowns’
  • A top tips sheet for supporting young people who might have low self-esteem
  • A top tips sheet for supporting siblings of children with additional needs
  • A top tips sheet to support young people with low mood
  • A tool to help children understand and manage their emotions throughout the day
  • Feelings communication board – a visual tool and guide to help children communicate their feelings

Booklets and Guides

More information

These resources below are not autism-specific but can provide useful information and supports for children and young people in relation to their mental health and wellbeing.

Local Services

Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service Supports children and young people with a range of difficulties that are seriously impacting on their mental health and emotional wellbeing. Referrals are made by a GP or other professional. 

Community Youth Teams A specialist service for vulnerable young people aged 10-18 years. This is a targeted, early help service which aims to support young people into positive destinations and reduce the likelihood of them entering the criminal justice system. Young people, parents/carers or professionals working with your child can make a referral and your child does not need a confirmed diagnosis to be referred.

Gold digger trust A charity working to equip young people with the confidence and skills to make positive choices for themselves. 

Sheffield Mental Health Guide An online guide for parents and carers about local mental health services. 

National Organisations

Kooth An online mental wellbeing community. Children and young people can access support directly.

Young Minds Supports young people, and those caring for them, with their mental health. They provide a parent helpline that offers free confidential telephone and email support to any adult worried about the wellbeing of a child or young person. 

Happy Maps A website featuring a range of information and mental health resources for parents and carers, and for young people and children.

Coronavirus

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