YoungMinds Newsletter – September 2020
Prioritising mental health as we return to school, uni and work
As schools across the UK begin to return, more and more of us go back to work, and universities prepare to reopen their doors, it’s so important that we look after our mental health to cope with these new challenges. Whatever you’re facing, you’re not alone – we’re here for you. If you are a young person starting a new school year, check out these tips on coping with anxiety about going back to school from two of our bloggers. If you’re going back to work, read how our blogger Rachael is coping with anxiety about this.
For those of you heading to uni, check out our guide to looking after yourself at uni for information, tips and suggestions on where to get support. We know that it’s a difficult time for parents and carers too, and that it can be hard to know how best to support your child in the current climate. If you are a parent or carer, read our advqice on supporting a child returning to school, as well as dealing with school anxiety and refusal. Whatever challenges you may be facing, we’re here to support you. Together we will get through this.
Are you ready to say #HelloYellow?
At a time when it’s needed most, let’s come together to support young people with their mental health by saying #HelloYellow on 9 October. Sign up now to receive your free fundraising kit with lots of wellbeing resources.
> Sign up now
Parents guide to trauma
Are you worried that your child is struggling with the effects of trauma? Have a look at our new page for information and practical advice on how to support your child.
> Read more
Our letter to Gavin Williamson
As part of our #BeyondTomorrow campaign, we wrote an open letter to Gavin Williamson, Secretary of State for Education, about supporting young people’s mental health as they return to school this autumn. We’ll be closely monitoring how schools and children cope over the next few weeks.
> Read the full letter
On the blog this month…
- Coping with anxiety about going back to school: After so long off school, it is completely natural to feel anxious about returning. Two of our bloggers share their worries and what’s helping them cope.
- How therapy helped me tackle my panic attacks: Starting counselling or therapy can be daunting, but it can have huge benefits for your mental health. Eleanor, 18, shares how therapy helped her tackle her anxiety and panic attacks.
- How COVID-19 has affected my health anxiety: Katie, 16, had been struggling with health anxiety for a few years before the coronavirus pandemic begun. Here she shares how COVID-19 has affected her health anxiety.
Also this month…
- Are you a senior leader, passionate about building outstanding financial and business operations that drive impact and business value? Apply now to be our new Director of Finance and Business Operations. Applications close 18 September 2020.
- We’re also recruiting a Senior Youth Engagement Officer to join our ambitious team and help ensure young people are able to shape and lead YoungMinds’ work in a safe and supportive environment. Applications close 5 September 2020.
At YoungMinds, we’re leading the fight for a future where all young minds are supported and empowered, whatever the challenges.