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Understanding Children and Young People’s Mental Health

Schools and colleges aim to address the issues and support students in a variety
of ways with initiatives that:

• Help to normalise mental health issues

• Raise awareness of how pupils can get support

• Support the development of emotional literacy and building resilience.

Schools can also provide access to an educational psychologist. These professionals
work with children and young people from birth to 25 years old, and become involved
with those who have the most significant or complex problems.

Key Fact

Schools will often provide a dedicated space for support to be
provided, often in a calming environment away from the classroom.

Source: www.citizensinformation.ie/en/education/primary_and_
post_primary_education/educational_supports/national_
educational_psychological_service.html

In addition, there are many charitable and voluntary organisations that offer services,
support or just a listening ear. Just a few examples of these organisations include:

• Childline – an organisation providing a 24-hour free and confidential chat
service via email and telephone

• Samaritans – an organisation that offers confidential support to anyone
in crisis

• Epic Friends – a website to help young people and their friends who may be
struggling emotionally

• Teenage Health Freak – a website that provides reliable and accurate
information

• U Can Cope! – a website that provides information for young people on how
to cope when they feel emotionally overwhelmed.

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