Parents encouraged to talk to their children about their mental health

A leading Public Health official is encouraging parents to speak to their children about their mental health and the support that is available.

The comments follow the publication of the latest NHS data, showing almost 400,000 were in contact with children and young people’s mental health services, at the end of February.

Dr Ekta Elston, local GP and medical director of NHS North East Lincolnshire CCG, said:

“COVID-19 has had a lasting impact on our children’s mental health and it’s important to recognise this.

“Anyone can struggle with their mental health, regardless of age, gender or background.

“The best thing parents can do is sit down with their child and speak to them about their mental health, ask how they are doing, and speak to them about the support that is on offer in the local area.

“It’s vital that children and young people in North East Lincolnshire know that there is free, confidential and professional support available online, over the phone, or in person whenever they need it.”

In our area, Kooth.com offer free confidential mental health support to young people, with 24/7 access to message boards, live chat and daily journals.

In schools, school nurses and mental health support teams are on hand each day to talk to young people about their mental and physical health.

Support is also available over the phone on 01472 256256 (option 3), freephone 08081 968442 or text ‘ORANGE’ to 85258, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.