Did you know that 50% of those with a lifetime mental health problem first experience symptoms by the age of 14?

At Achieve More we have a long term commitment with children and young people’s mental health. We have supported many campaigns over the years and discussed the importance of proper support for those who need it most. Because of that, in celebration of #ChildrensMentalHealthWeek2022 we wanted to gather some of the resources that has been published over the last week.

Important activities and methods to apply when raising our children to be their authentic-selves.

Recent studies show that the quality of available green space is important for children’s mental health especially for those children living in Urban environments. Our organisation encourages outdoor activities on a regular basis to guarantee that all children access a healthy environment in a safe manner. Research proves time and time again that outdoor physical activity is key for children and young people’s mental health.

Positive effects of green space on wellbeing differ by ethnicity. Satisfaction with the quality of green space appears to be a more important predictor of wellbeing than does quantity of green space. Public health professionals and urban planners need to focus on both quality and quantity of urban green spaces to promote health, particularly among ethnic minority groups.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29880156/

Teachers have also been recommending multiple books to explain emotions and discuss them from an early age.

The colour monster by Anna Llenas can be a fantastic introduction for the wee ones of the family. A lovely little story which explores emotions and feelings, each associated with a colour.

The organisation Place2Be has led this campaign and provided multiple learning tools for educators, carers and parents. Visit http://childrensmentalhealthweek.org.uk to find out more, and help us to raise awareness of the importance of children and young people’s #mentalhealth.

Who or what helps you when you’re feeling upset, angry or worried? Pupils in a Place2Be partner school in Cardiff took part in our Wellbeing Well activity and shared the different ways they look after their wellbeing.

Drawing and writing about the different ways they look after their wellbeing, the pupils described how the people around them can cheer them up when they’re feeling sad. Many pupils talked about spending time with their parents or carers, siblings and friends.

“When I am sad a hug with my sister will make me happy”, said 9-year-old Kydon.

For many, animals and pets were an important factor in their wellbeing.

“When I’m feeling sad and worried, I go to my bunnies to play with them and it makes me really happy. I love them so much!” said 10-year-old Elina.

Hobbies were also a common way of looking after their wellbeing, with pupils sharing their love of reading, playing sports, playing a musical instrument, swimming, dancing, drawing or colouring in.

“When I am feeling sad, I dance, and it makes me feel safe. Basketball makes me happy. When I am feeling worried, I do cheerleading, and it makes me feel relaxed and calm.” explained 10-year-old Skye.

Many of the pupils said that getting outdoors helped their wellbeing; sitting by a tree, going to the park, or going for a walk (even in the rain!)

“When I feel sad, I like to go and get some fresh air. When I get back, I play with my brother and sisters. They are only two, but they make me feel safe and joyful.” said 10-year-old Kylan.