Discussing mental health
As of 2023, approximately 23.3% (nearly one in four) of young people aged 17 to 19 in England had a probable mental health disorder, according to NHS England data.
I’m Rachel, one of the Careers Advisers at Harrow Youth Stop. I work with young people across Harrow aged 16-24, who aren’t in education, employment or training. I support young people on their career journey by providing impartial (non-biased) careers information, advice and guidance.
I am by no means an expert and I don’t claim to be, but over the past few years, I’ve seen a big increase in the number of young people who have low mood, diagnosed anxiety or are generally struggling to cope. I wanted to share my experiences of young people and how they’re affected by mental health issues.
Mental Wellbeing
‘Young people aged 15 to 24 are more likely to experience mental health illness and/or substance use disorder than any other age group’ (source: The Children’s Society website).
I got together with some of our young people and colleagues to discuss the topic of mental wellbeing. We considered tips we would share with others about maintaining positive mental health, and we also spoke about what negatively impacts our mental health.
Young people have concerns relating to exams stress, family problems, friendship issues, sleeping problems and overuse of mobile phones or social media platforms. They say all of this doesn’t make them feel good. These concerns were echoed in our group discussion.
Speaking with Yvonne Augustin, Outreach and Engagement Officer at Compass Elevation, she explained that there has been an increase of substance misuse associated with mental health. The service supports young people who are experiencing personal challenges with their own substance use, or with someone in their close network.
It’s important not to judge a young person, but instead give them the space to discuss their needs and try to respond positively, helping them realise that they can speak and be heard.
If any young person is suffering from a diagnosed mental health illness and/or is going through a mental health crisis, they should get help immediately.
Top Tips
Below are some mental health tips we’ve created as a team of young people and Careers Advisers.
Top tips from young people in Harrow
- Walking is great for wellbeing, and can clear your thoughts for a while.
- Be kind to yourself – it’s OK not to be OK.
- Spend time with friends and family.
- Ask for help from a trusted adult.
- Exercise, a healthy diet and sleep all help mental health.
Top tips from our Harrow Youth Stop Careers Advisers
- Create a safe space for young people to talk.
- Listen to music to feel good inside.
- Accept what you can’t change and be at peace with yourself.
- Signpost young people to relevant mental health provision.
- Treat young people fairly, without judgement of their situation.
As a Careers Adviser, I can’t ignore the concerns of young people. Mental health can have an impact on how they’re able to access careers support and get into education, employment and training. It’s important to work in partnership with organisations who have the expertise in mental health, and to encourage young people and parents/carers (where appropriate) to use the support that’s available.
Let’s continue to support each other and spread the word of taking care of our mental health.
Please see some useful links below.
Get in touch
Based in Harrow and need some support with your mental health? Harrow Youth Stop can help.