Mental health - like physical health - is something we all have. Like physical health, it can range from good to poor, and can also change over time. With good mental health, children can feel confident and be more open to trying and learning new things. Mental health doesn't mean being happy all the time.

Did you know...

16 million people in the UK experience a mental illness

One in four adults will experience a mental illness at some point each year in the UK.

Three in four mental illnesses start in childhood

75% of mental illnesses start before a child reaches their 18th birthday, while 50% of mental health problems in adult life (excluding dementia) take root before the age of 15.

10% of school children have a diagnosable mental illness

In an average class of 30 young people, three will have a mental health problem. Figures show 10% of children aged 5-16 have been diagnosed with a mental health problem.

75% of young people with a mental health problem are not receiving treatment

There has been a rise in the time children are having to wait to receive treatment for complex mental health conditions, and children with depression and anxiety are often not being identified or given help.

School Dog - Nova

Research has shown many benefits to therapy and reading dogs in school settings. Sebright has introduced the access to a dog promoting emotional well-being, curiosity and engagement as an additional provision for pupils with high additional needs at school.

Find out more about Nova...

Ukraine

Whilst we are geographically far away from the events, many in our schools and communities will be directly affected and may have families or roots in the region.

The news and social media feeds are filled with the latest information, and some of it is very upsetting and worrying; and may not even be verified. Children listening and viewing distressing images can become frightened and fearful.

Here are some background reading resources to help you think about how adults can support children with what they are seeing or feeling.

Supporting your child if they see upsetting content online about what is happening in Ukraine:

Breathing

This year we are focusing on our breathing. Every week we have different breathing exercises we do in school and we can practice at home.

Mindfulness

Alongside Breathing we also do meditation to help with our focus and concentration.

World Mental Health Day

On this very important date for Mental Health we are learning how can we deal with our Mental Health and how can we improve it. We talked about it assemblies and in class and we got to make a speech bubble of what Mental Health is for us.

Mental Health Links and Apps