Positive Mental Health and Wellbeing
What is Positive Mental Health and Wellbeing?
The World Health Organisation 2010 defines it as the following:
‘a state of mind in which an individual is able to realise his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.’
Why is it important?
It is important because this is what we truly want for our children.
Research has proven that without emotional and physical wellbeing, students will not be able to reach their full potential. There are government expectations that schools should support students and staff to be resilient and mentally healthy. They should provide a safe environment that fosters trust and belonging and create a culture that supports mental health
It is estimated that 1 in 4 children and young people will be affected by a mental health problem each year with 1 in 10 children in UK aged between 5 years and 16 years have a diagnosable mental health condition. In an average classroom, three young people will be suffering from a diagnosable mental health issue
Public Health England in March 2015 comment on the influence that a child’s emotional health & wellbeing has on their cognitive development & learning, as well as their physical and social health and their mental wellbeing in adulthood.
A whole school positive mental health and wellbeing approach that moves beyond learning & teaching to cover all aspects of school life has been found to be effective in bringing about sustained health benefits.
Sources of Advice and Guidance
Parenting and Family Support:
Family Lives:
A website for parents and carers. Use the online chat or call the confidential helpline for advice and support.
Call: 0808 800 2222
Action for children:
A website offering support and guidance for parents.
Action for Children – Good Mental Health
Barnardo’s:
A website offering support and guidance for parents.
Families in Focus Parenting Course:
Termly courses in Bristol for parents on anxiety and managing behaviour.
Bristol Gov – Parenting Courses Currently running in Bristol
Mental Health Support for Children:
Mind Ed for families:
NHS England online courses and resources to support your children with their mental health
Bristol Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS):
Local advice and guidance on mental health.
Happy Maps:
A directory of guidance on child’s mental health created by professionals, including book recommendations for children and articles dealing with specific challenges to do with mental and emotional health.
Young Minds:
Advice and support for parents, including a helpline, webchat and email response line.
Childline:
Talk to a counsellor in a safe space about whatever is worrying you. They’re open 24/7, you can talk through a 1-2-1 online chat, or you can call the helpline: 0800 111
Mental Health Support for Adults:
NHS:
Advice and Guidance about Mental Health.
Vita Health – NHS Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT):
A service for adults with mental health issues with digital, phone and face-to-face support available. Self-referrals can be made or you can access it through your GP.
Mind:
Information, advice and guidance about mental health conditions as an adult.
