It can be tricky to spot when young kids are struggling with their mental health, it's not like they have the words or understanding to let you know themselves! But did you know that one in six children from the tender of age of just five years are likely to have a mental health problem, according to The Children's Society?
Even more concerning, the likelihood of young people facing mental health challenges has risen by 50% in the last three years, and The Children's Society Good Childhood Report shows that children's happiness continues to decline, with five children in a classroom of 30 being likely to have a mental health problem. Child mental health is a huge concern, which is why it’s so important to nurture open, honest conversations with children about their feelings.
Nationwide awareness events like Children's Mental Health Week help to give kids a voice, and highlight the importance of parents having meaningful conversations with their children. Ahead of Children’s Mental Health Week 2025, we want to support parents too – in this guide, you'll find information to help you spot telltale signs of mental health struggles in kids.
We know that talking about mental health can sometimes feel awkward, and it can be difficult to know where to start, especially with children – so we've gathered expert tips to help you start these important conversations, and help your little ones to express how they’re feeling. We've also included resources and information about how to get access to children's mental health services at the end of the article. Together, we can make sure children get the support they need to be their best selves.
When is Children's Mental Health Week?
Children’s Mental Health Week 2025 takes place between 3-9 February, with the theme 'Know Yourself, Grow Yourself'. This year, the event is being held in partnership with Here4You, supported by The Walt Disney Company and the characters from Inside Out 2, which is a really useful child-friendly film that uses characters to personify feelings to help children understand more about their own, and can help prompt conversations around mental health at home.
The aim of Children's Mental Health week is to raise awareness about the importance of recognising mental health struggles in children. It also encourages young ones to speak up and be heard, empowering them to work together to create positive change. There are plenty of fundraising efforts and resources available on the site to help spread the word and get everyone involved.
Signs a child might be struggling with their mental health
It can be tough to know if something’s bothering your child, especially when they’re still learning how to express their emotions. These are a few signs of mental illness to watch out for, or just things you might notice if your child is struggling.
Keep an eye out for:
Changes in behaviour: If your child is suddenly acting out of character, for example, becoming more withdrawn, aggressive, or emotional – it could be a sign they’re having a tough time.
One of our Mother&Baby Digital Writers experienced this with her child during the Covid pandemic. "As a highly sociable kid who thrives on friendships and being around peers, the isolation of lockdowns and school closures really impacted my child's behaviour" she says, "we had explosive outbursts and emotional breakdowns every day. Luckily, the school were able to make an exception - returning to school, the normality of routine and friends was exactly what was needed."
Difficulty sleeping: Persistent sleep issues, like trouble falling asleep or frequent nightmares, can sometimes point to underlying stress or anxiety.
Withdrawal from social situations: If your child is isolating themselves or pulling away from friends and family, it could be an indication of emotional struggles.
Losing interest in things they used to enjoy: When a child stops participating in activities they once loved, it can be a signal that something deeper is going on.
Self-harm or neglecting themselves: If your child begins hurting themselves or shows a lack of care for personal hygiene, it’s important to take it seriously and seek professional advice. You might notice this more if you have an older child or teen.
Many children and young people will face emotional or behavioural challenges at some point. For some, these issues may pass with time, but for others, they might need extra help or professional support. If you notice any of these changes in your child, it's important to address them early.
Offering support and starting a conversation is the first step, and it can go a long way in helping them feel understood. Knowing how to support your child isn't always obvious though, so let's dig a little deeper...
Ways to support your child’s mental health and wellbeing
Helping your child through tough times means offering both a listening ear and practical guidance. Supporting your child's mental health isn't as complicated or scary as it sounds, and there are plenty of ways you can be there for them. Here are some tips:
Be there to listen: Ask your child how they’re feeling. This might feel awkward at first – not just for you but for them too if they're not used to communicating how they feel. Encouraging children to talk about their emotions helps them get used to opening up though, and it'll get easier. They might even come to enjoy it! Knowing someone is always there to listen can make a big difference.
Stay involved: Take an interest in their life, including the things that matter most to them. For example, ask about their day at school or join them in activities they enjoy, like playing a game or drawing together. Small moments of connection can make a big difference. It not only helps them feel valued, but it also allows you to pick up on any changes and offer support when they need it most.
Take what they say seriously: When your child opens up, listen carefully and show that their feelings matter. For example, you might say, "I can see that this is really upsetting you, and I’m here to help." Validating their emotions helps them feel seen and heard. Then, work together to find positive ways to manage their emotions and any challenges they’re facing.
Support them through difficulties: Pay attention to their feelings and behaviour, and offer your help in navigating tough situations. For example, if they’re upset after an argument with a friend, you could say, "That sounds really hard—how do you feel about what happened?" Then, gently guide them toward understanding their emotions by helping them name their feelings, like frustration or sadness. This can help them process their emotions in a healthier way.
Encourage their interests: Support your child’s passions and encourage them to explore new activities. For example, if they love animals, you might suggest volunteering at a local shelter or visiting a petting zoo together. Whether it’s playing sports, drawing, or joining a team, finding something they enjoy can be a wonderful way to boost their confidence and support their mental wellbeing.
Build positive routines: Establishing regular routines around eating, exercise, and sleep can create a sense of security for your child. For example, try setting aside a consistent family mealtime or scheduling a short daily walk together—it’s a great way to connect while promoting healthy habits. And don’t underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep; creating a calming bedtime routine, like reading a story or dimming the lights, can help support their overall mental health.
How to talk to your child about mental health
Talking to your child about mental health can feel overwhelming, but it’s an important step in supporting their emotional wellbeing. The National Alliance on Mental Illness offers valuable guidance for parents to help with these crucial conversations. Here’s what they recommend:
Listen and validate their feelings: NAMI stresses the importance of listening attentively and acknowledging your child's feelings. You could say something like, "It sounds like you're feeling overwhelmed right now. I’m here to listen and support you." This helps your child feel heard and reassured that their feelings are valid.
Reassure them it’s not their fault: Many children feel guilty or ashamed when they experience mental health struggles. NAMI advises parents to reassure their children that these feelings are not their fault. Let them know it's okay to feel the way they do, and they don’t need to "fix" it alone.
Keep the conversation ongoing: According to NAMI, it’s important to make mental health conversations a regular part of life. By checking in often and normalising these talks, you help your child understand that it’s always okay to share their feelings and seek support.
Encourage their curiosity: NAMI suggests encouraging your child to ask questions about mental health. Answer them honestly and in an age-appropriate way, so they feel comfortable exploring their emotions and understanding mental health.
Involve the family: NAMI also recommends involving the whole family in the conversation. When mental health is treated as an open, family-wide topic, your child is more likely to feel supported and understood.
Discuss self-care: NAMI highlights the role of self-care in supporting mental health. Encourage healthy habits like regular sleep, good nutrition, and physical activity. Spend time with your child doing calming or enjoyable activities, such as walking or drawing, to help them manage their emotions.
Step-by-step guide for talking to your child about their emotions
Ready to open up a conversation with your child but not sure where to start? Don’t worry, let’s keep it simple. Just follow this step-by-step guide to help your child open up about how they’re feeling.
1 Choose the right time and place
Find a quiet, relaxed setting where you can have an uninterrupted conversation. A calm moment, like after reading a bedtime story, or while sitting together on the couch after a favorite activity, can help make your child feel more comfortable.
2 Ask open-ended questions
Start by asking gentle, open-ended questions. For example:
• "How has your day felt for you?"
• "Is there something you’ve been thinking about that you’d like to share?"
• "I’ve noticed you seem a bit upset lately. Can you tell me what’s been bothering you?"
3 Listen actively and empathetically
Pay attention to what your child says without interrupting. Nod, make eye contact, and show that you care. If they’re struggling to find the words, resist the urge to fill in for them. Try to be patient and allow them to express themselves in their own words and at their own pace.
4 Acknowledge their feelings
Let them know that it’s okay to feel however they do. Reassure them:
• "I can see that you're feeling sad, and that’s okay. I'm here to listen."
• "It’s perfectly normal to feel upset sometimes. We all do."
5 Reassure them it’s not their fault
Many children feel guilty when they’re struggling emotionally. Reassure them that their feelings are not their fault:
• "It’s okay to feel this way, and it doesn’t mean you’ve done anything wrong."
6 Offer support and solutions
Once they’ve shared, ask how you can help. You might say:
• "What do you think would help you feel better?"
• "Would you like to talk to someone like a teacher or a counselor? We can do that together."
7 Follow up regularly
Mental health is an ongoing conversation, so check in often to show that you care and are there for them, whether they’re doing well or facing challenges.
For younger kids it can be even harder to talk to them about their feelings, but children's books about mental health can be a good starting point. Board books like The Worrysaurus and pictures books like I am Human: A book of empathy cover big themes in fun ways that are much more accessible for little minds.
Children's Mental Health Week activities
Children's Mental Health Week is a fantastic opportunity to engage kids in activities that promote mental and emotional well-being. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or caregiver, there are plenty of ways to get involved and help children build resilience, express themselves, and explore their feelings in a positive way. Here are some children's mental health week ideas you can try, inspired by this year's event:
Express yourself through creativity
Encourage children to share their feelings through drawing, painting, or writing. The official Children's Mental Health Week website provides free resources and activity ideas designed to spark creativity and open up conversations. Alternatively, you could look into organised services that provide art therapy for children's mental health.
Mindfulness and yoga sessions
Introducing mindfulness exercises or yoga is a simple yet effective way to help kids feel calm and focused. Try online platforms like Cosmic Kids Yoga for engaging, child-friendly sessions.
Gratitude jars
Help children reflect on positive moments by creating a gratitude jar. Each day, they can write down one thing they’re thankful for, promoting optimism and self-awareness.
Well-being walks
A gentle walk outdoors can be incredibly grounding. Point out nature’s beauty, discuss what they see, and explore how being outside makes them feel. It’s a simple activity with big benefits.
School-based activities
Schools play a key role in Children's Mental Health Week, offering themed assemblies, classroom discussions, and workshops. If your child’s school is participating, it’s a great chance to reinforce these lessons at home.
For more inspiration on children's mental health activities and free children's mental health week resources, check out the official Children’s Mental Health Week website.
Positive Signs Your Child's Mental Health Is Improving
As you support your child through challenging emotions, it’s important to notice and celebrate the positive signs that they’re beginning to feel better. Recognising progress can reassure you that your efforts are helping and motivate your child to keep opening up. Here are some "wins" to look for:
Improved sleep patterns: They’re getting better quality sleep and feeling more rested in the mornings.
Engaging in hobbies: They’re showing interest in activities they used to enjoy or trying out new ones.
More open communication: They’re more willing to talk about their thoughts and feelings without being prompted.
Healthier social interactions: They’re reconnecting with friends or family and seem more comfortable in social situations.
Stabilised emotions: You might notice fewer mood swings, reduced irritability, or a lighter, more positive attitude.
Taking care of themselves: They’re showing more interest in their personal hygiene, eating habits, or other aspects of self-care.
Don't forget, it’s normal for progress to happen gradually and for ups and downs to occur along the way. Celebrate children's emotional wellbeing with small victories, and keep offering a safe, supportive environment where they feel valued and understood.
Helpful resources for children's mental health support
If you're looking for additional mental health support for children, there are many trusted resources and helplines that can provide guidance and information about children’s mental health. Here are some places to turn to for expert advice and children's mental health help:
NHS Mental Health Services: Visit the NHS website for advice and information on mental health issues in children, including how to access support locally.
Childline: A free and confidential helpline for children and young people. Kids can call 0800 1111, and parents can find resources on the Childline website.
Mind: Mind offers support and advice for parents and caregivers about children’s mental health. Explore resources on the Mind website. They also have information for young people aged 11-18 who may be seeking support independently.
YoungMinds: This charity specialises in young people’s mental health. The YoungMinds website features a parents’ helpline, guides, and advice.
The Children’s Society: A charity focused on improving the lives of vulnerable children. Learn more about their work and access advice on The Children's Society website.
These resources can provide further guidance if you’re unsure how to support your child or want professional advice tailored to their needs. If you're concerned about your child, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional support from your GP or your child's school who may be able to refer you to the right children's mental health services.
Proud aunt to her teen niece, Zara Mohammed is a Digital Writer for Mother&Baby. She has 10 years freelance writing experience creating lifestyle content for various platforms, including pregnancy, women’s health, parenting, child development and child mental health, plus lots of fun seasonal family articles and celebrity news.