Supporting a Child’s Mental Health: A Guide for Parents, Teachers, and Caregivers 

9th June 2025
Uncategorised

Mental health challenges don’t only affect adults — children and young people experience them too. But unlike grown-ups, they often don’t have the language to explain what they’re going through. As a parent, teacher, or caregiver, it can be heartbreaking to see a child struggling and not know how to help. 

The good news? You don’t need to be a therapist to make a difference. With understanding, patience, and the right approach, you can provide the support that helps a child feel safe, seen, and valued. 

Children rarely say, “I’m anxious” or “I’m depressed.” Instead, their struggles might show up in more subtle ways, such as: 

  • Changes in behaviour (withdrawal, aggression, clinginess) 
  • Mood swings or irritability 
  • Difficulty sleeping or eating 
  • Frequent tummy aches or headaches with no medical cause 
  • Trouble concentrating or a sudden drop in school performance 

Mental health issues in children can look different depending on their age and personality. Trust your instincts — if something feels “off,” it’s worth paying attention. Children need to feel safe before they open up. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or other adult figure, showing that you’re calm, patient, and willing to listen without judgment is the first step. 

Try saying: 

“You seem a bit down lately. I’m here if you ever want to talk about anything — big or small.” 

“It’s okay to have bad days. We all do. You’re not alone.” 

Avoid pressuring them to talk, but keep the door open. Let them know they can come to you any time, without fear of getting in trouble or being dismissed. When a child opens up, resist the urge to jump in with solutions or try to fix things right away. What they often need most is someone to truly listen. 

  • Get down to their level physically — eye contact and body language matter 
  • Reflect what they’re saying to show you understand (e.g. “That sounds really hard.”) 
  • Avoid minimising their feelings (“You’re just tired” or “Don’t be silly”) 

Validation goes a long way. It tells them: Your feelings are real. I’m here with you. 

Children thrive on routine and consistency — especially when they’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed. Maintain a steady routine wherever possible (both at home and in school), and provide clear, calm reassurance. 

  • Keep bedtimes and mealtimes predictable 
  • Offer gentle reminders of what to expect during the day 
  • Use positive reinforcement: celebrate small steps forward 

Also, make time for connection. Play, read, walk, or do creative activities together. Simple shared moments build trust and emotional safety. 

Children need to learn how to manage big emotions — but they can’t do it alone. Help them build coping tools they can use when things feel overwhelming: 

  • Deep breathing exercises (e.g. “smell the flower, blow out the candle”) 
  • Drawing or journaling to express feelings 
  • Taking breaks or going to a calm space 
  • Talking to a trusted adult or using a worry box 

Model these behaviours yourself — children learn most by watching what the adults around them do. 

If you’re a parent, speak with teachers or school staff. If you’re a teacher, reach out to caregivers. A joined-up approach means better understanding and more consistent support. 

Also consider involving: 

  • School counsellors or pastoral care teams 
  • Your GP or child mental health services (e.g., CAMHS in the UK) 
  • Specialist support charities like YoungMinds or Place2Be 

Early intervention is key — don’t wait for things to reach a crisis point before seeking help. 

Sometimes, a child’s mental health challenges may require specialist support. This is not a failure on your part — it’s a sign of strength to ask for help. 

Reach out for professional support if you notice: 

  • Self-harming behaviour or talk of suicide 
  • Ongoing withdrawal, aggression, or panic attacks 
  • A significant decline in daily functioning over time 

In a crisis, always contact emergency services (999 in the UK) or speak to a mental health helpline. 

Supporting a child through mental health difficulties can be exhausting, especially if you’re emotionally invested — as most caregivers are. Make sure that you: 

  • Set realistic expectations (you can’t fix everything) 
  • Seek support for yourself (friends, family, therapy, or peer groups) 
  • Take regular breaks and prioritise your own mental health 

You can’t support others if you’re completely drained. Looking after your wellbeing sets a powerful example for the children around you. You don’t need to have all the answers. Just by showing that you care, that you’re listening, and that you’ll be there no matter what, you’re doing something deeply important. Children remember who was kind to them when they were struggling. Your presence, your patience, and your love — these are the foundations of healing. 

 Helpful Resources: 

  • Samaritans (for adults and young people) – 116 123 (free, 24/7) 
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