Mental health help for children and young people in Sunderland

The past few months have been hard on everyone, including children and young people living in and around Sunderland.
Ad Feature by Sunderland City Council
Published 10th Sep 2020, 11:41 BST
Updated 17th Sep 2020, 07:07 BST
Returning to school has been tough for manyReturning to school has been tough for many
Returning to school has been tough for many

As we all adapt to a new normal, they may be worried about catching up with missed education, starting a new school or college or rebuilding relationships with friends.

Some studies suggest children and young people have higher levels of stress and anxiety than adults, and some may need further support. How a child or young person reacted to the COVID-19 outbreak may depend on their age, past experiences or understanding of what's happening.

Some, including those with additional needs and disabilities, may find it difficult to deal with things after being off school for so long. Schools are well prepared for welcoming them back, with a range of things in place to keep children, young people and staff safe. Check out your school website/social media for details.

If you think your child needs support, reach out to the many services in and around Sunderland which can helpIf you think your child needs support, reach out to the many services in and around Sunderland which can help
If you think your child needs support, reach out to the many services in and around Sunderland which can help

What you can do to help your child:

Listen to what your child is saying and how they are feeling

Be clear about what's happening

Limit news and conversation about coronavirus

Keep close and regular contact

Create new routines

Get active

Eat healthily and avoid too many treats

Children and young people need good sleep

Look after your own mental health and get support

Find out more here.

Worried about how your child is coping?

There's plenty of advice, help and support. This includes but is not limited to:

Young People’s Wellbeing Info - online directory with information and self-help tools

Kooth free, safe, online counselling and support for 11-18 year olds and care leavers under 25. Fully trained, qualified counsellors and emotional wellbeing practitioners available until 10pm each night, 365 days a year

MIND services in Washington, Sunderland and the Coalfields. [email protected] 0191 417 8043 Mon-Fri 10am -2pm/or Live Chat available Mon-Fri 2pm-3pm for young people/ Mon-Fri 3pm for adults.

Growing Healthy Sunderland confidential drop-ins for secondary schools and colleges. Call 03000 031 552 to arrange to speak, text or video call a school nurse or emotional resilience nurse. emotional wellbeing information - #Wellbeing Wednesday and access to a virtual offer Mon – Fri 3-5pm

Sunderland Community Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CCAMHS) support and advice to children and young people 0-18. 0191 283 1656 Monday-Friday 9am-5pm

Children and Young People Service (CYPS) service to 0-18 years living in Sunderland with mental health difficulties. 0191 566 5500/freephone 0800 652 2868 Monday-Friday 8am-8pm.

Sunderland Carers Centre - support for young carers

Rise Above helps 11-16 year olds build emotional resilience

Young Minds Parent Line 0808 802 5544 Advice for parents and carers 9.30-4pm Mon-Fri.

Young Minds Crisis Messenger Text YM to 85258 Crisis text support for under 25’s 24/7

Papyrus Hopeline 0800 068 4141 Support and advice for Young People. 9am-10pm Mon-Fri. 2-10pm weekends.

The Mix 0808 808 4994 - Advice and support for under 25s 4-11pm

Childline 0800 11 11 available 9am-Midnight and online 1-2-1 chat

Please remember to follow the most up to date guidance on social distancing, hand washing and the use of face coverings.

Related topics:SunderlandSchools