Supporting Young Minds: Embracing Youth Mental Health Day

Today we mark Youth Mental Health Day—a day dedicated to raising awareness of the unique challenges young people face and encouraging ways we can all offer meaningful support. With research showing that one in six young people in the UK experience a mental health problem each year, the need for compassion, conversation, and connection has never been greater.

This year’s theme, “Share Support,” reminds us that sometimes the simplest actions—listening without judgement, offering encouragement, or creating safe spaces—can make a lasting difference to a young person’s life.

Why Youth Mental Health Needs Our Attention

Growing up has never been easy, but today’s generation is facing pressures that are unique to our times. Alongside the usual challenges of identity, education, and friendships, young people also navigate:

• Social media pressures – constant comparison and online bullying.

• Academic expectations – the drive to achieve at all costs.

• Global uncertainty – climate anxiety, financial pressures, and political unrest.

• Isolation – many young people report feeling lonely despite being constantly “connected.”

The good news? Young people are more open about mental health than any generation before. They are leading the conversation around wellbeing and resilience—but they still need adults to step up, listen, and provide guidance.

Practical Ways to Support Young People on Youth Mental Health Day

If you’re a parent, teacher, or community member, here are some simple yet powerful ways to “share support”:

1. Listen First, Advise Later

   Sometimes the greatest gift is your full attention. Listen without interrupting or rushing to offer solutions.

2. Validate Their Feelings

   Acknowledge emotions instead of minimising them (“I can see how much this matters to you” rather than “Don’t worry, it’s not a big deal”).

3. Encourage Healthy Habits

   Support routines that nurture mental health: sleep, balanced nutrition, exercise, and time offline.

4. Model Openness About Mental Health

   Share your own strategies for coping with stress—this normalises seeking help.

5. Know When to Seek Professional Help

   
   

   If worries are persistent, overwhelming, or interfering with daily life, encourage speaking to a counsellor, GP, or school mental health team.

   
   

The Role of Therapy in Supporting Young People

Professional counselling offers a confidential, non-judgemental space for young people to explore what they’re going through. Therapy can help with:

• Building emotional resilience

• Developing healthy coping strategies

• Managing anxiety, low mood, or stress

• Navigating identity and self-esteem challenges

• Improving communication and relationships

  
  

Every young person deserves to feel heard, supported, and empowered to thrive—not just survive.

Youth Mental Health Day is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a reminder of the power we all have to create a culture of care and compassion for the next generation. By listening, validating, and encouraging young people, we can help them feel less alone and more equipped to face life’s challenges.

If you or someone you know could benefit from professional support, I offer a safe and welcoming space for young people to explore what’s on their minds. Together, we can build resilience and confidence for the future.

👉 Get in touch today to book an initial consultation.