This course explores how professionals other than teachers can help young people experiencing difficulties with their mental health.
It is made up of nine sections. It could take approximately one to two hours to complete, but this timing will depend on how fast you read and how long you spend on the reflective questions.
You do not need to complete the whole course in one go. If you leave and come back to the course it will remember where you got up to.
The course has been reviewed by Holly Naylor, Education Mental Health Practitioner (EMHP).
If you want a certificate for doing this course, press the ‘mark complete’ button at the bottom of each page.
Last updated March 2025.
Everyone has mental health, just as we all have physical health. Our mental health needs to be cared for and looked after, just as our physical health does. We can help young people develop good mental health by supporting their emotional wellbeing and promoting resilience skills. We all experience ‘ups and downs’ with our mental health and most of us will bounce back after a short time. However, with 1 in 10 young people experiencing a mental health disorder, recognising when a mental health difficulty might be starting and knowing where to find the right information and support are key. This will help to promote a quicker recovery so they can get on with their lives.
Learning as much as you can about a young person’s difficulties can help you understand how best to support them. To find a range of information on issues for professionals regarding children’s emotional and mental health go to The Royal College of Psychiatry
Anna Freud is a mental health charity for children and families. You can access their website by clicking on the following link: Anna Freud
Childline aims to help young people whatever they're going through. You can access their website by clicking on the following link: Childline
Young Minds is a charity 'fighting for young people's mental health'. You can access their website by clicking on the following link: Young Minds
Kidscape is an anti-bullying charity. You can access their website by clicking on the following link: Kidscape
Barnardos is a charity focused on helping children and young people feel safer, happier, healthier and more hopeful. You can access their website by clicking on the following link: Barnardos
The Mental Health Foundation is a charity working in mental health since 1949. You can access their website by clicking on the following link: The Mental Health Foundation
Family Lives deals with a range of issues to improve the lives of families. You can access their website by clicking on the following link: Family Lives