Support a young person who’s struggling
Learn how to reach in and support a young person safely and effectively.
Expert help
A young person has opened up about something they’re struggling with and you’ve had a productive conversation finding out what’s going on. What actions might you take next?
Now that they have opened up to you, they’ve opened up their world to support from a whole host of places. You don’t have to take all of the responsibility on your shoulders. Your job is to help them find the best support available, whether that’s opening up to parents, friends or guardians, or speaking to a GP, counsellor or specialist mental health support.
If a young person is at immediate risk of harm or is not safe, call 999 or take them to A&E.
The NHS is clear that a mental health emergency should be taken as seriously as a physical one. You will not be wasting anyone’s time.
What you can do to help
Get professional help
There’s so much support out there - you are not on your own. Professionals like GPs, CALM or therapists can take on the weight with you and give more specialist help when it's needed.
Connect with other adults
Check in with adults in their life. This way you can create a safety net that ensures a young person always has a space to share - even if that’s not directly to you. It's also a great way to create a support network for yourself.
Help young people use tools and resources online
From online journaling and mindfulness apps, there’s loads of stuff out there to help your young person to manage their mental wellbeing.
You can also try CALM’s website which has loads of stuff to help explore what they’re facing and find practical steps forward, or use our service directory to explore other specialist organisations.
Try to avoid these things
Don’t leave them alone if they are in danger
Stay with a young person if they are at risk of harming themselves or someone else. Remove anything harmful and get emergency help.
Don’t delay getting help
If a young person is struggling and at risk it’s your responsibility to escalate the situation and find help. While your actions might upset them, your priority is to keep them safe. Be transparent about why you’re seeking more help.
Don’t do it alone
The support that’s out there isn’t just for young people. You can get advice and help on your next steps too. If you’re unsure on what to do, contact specialist support services and ask their advice and guidance. CALM’s services are a great place to start if you’re worried about a young person.
Don’t forget about your needs
Supporting a young person who is struggling - especially long term - can be really difficult. Managing work, home and your other responsibilities can really take its toll. Make sure you’ve got a support network around you - whether that’s friends, family or a therapist - to get support and talk about what you’re going through. Find more support for yourself through CALM's website.
