Mental Health & Wellbeing
Here at St Mary's, children’s emotional wellbeing is just as important to us as their physical health. Good mental health helps children develop the resilience to cope with whatever life throws at them and grow into well-rounded, healthy adults. By developing positive mental health equips children with the skills and strategies to help them cope when things get tough.
What is Mental Health?
Taking care of your mind is just as important as taking care of your body! Mental health means feeling happy, safe, and able to handle all sorts of feelings like excitement, sadness, and even worry. When we talk about our feelings, ask for help when we need it, and practice self-care—like taking breaks, playing with friends, or even doing something creative—it helps our minds stay strong. Remember, everyone has good days and tough days, and it’s okay to ask for support when you need it. Looking after your mental health helps you feel better, think clearly, and be ready for all the fun and challenges school brings!
What causes mental health problems?
This is individual to each person. What one person finds difficult may be different to another. Some mental health problems can be caused by traumatic or stressful events, bereavements, changes to relationships, starting a new school or moving house. Sometimes it can be a number of small things that become overwhelming and sometimes there can be no obvious reason.
These are just a small example of what a child, or adult, may find stressful and can cause worry leading to mental health difficulties.
How can we help?
There are lots of ways we can help our children cope with their mental health including: talking to an adult or a friend, talking to a GP, finding support groups locally or online through trusted sites such as Childline or Youngminds. Completing art or mindfulness activities, being active, singing or playing board games are some of ways how we can support our children with their mental health.
Below you will find links to resources for parents, guides for children to complete, ways to keep minds busy and strategies for children (and adults) to use when things are getting on top of them.
Help and Resources
If you have concerns about your child's mental health, please contact your GP. You are also welcome to speak to your child's class teacher, our SENCO (Mrs Alley) or our Family Support Worker (Mrs Bain) who will be able to offer support and direct you to local groups or services.