Supporting Children and Young People's Emotional Health and Wellbeing
Cardiff and Vale University Health Board (UHB) has developed a brand-new website, co-produced with children and young people to offer useful information and resources on emotional wellbeing and mental health. The wellbeing of some children and young people has been significantly impacted by the pandemic, it remains vital that people access support.
Visitors to the new website can find information about emotional wellbeing, mental health, services available and how to access them. There is also lots of advice and a range of useful resources signposted. All of the information on the website has been specially curated by healthcare professionals in partnership with young people.
Early signs of emotional distress in children and young people can include:
Changes in habits – sleeping or eating too much or too little
Withdrawing from people and activities that are usually of interest
Reduced energy levels
Unexplained aches or pains, including stomach aches and headaches
Feeling hopeless
Excessive smoking, drinking or use of drugs (including prescription medications)
Consistent feelings of worry and guilt
Thoughts of harming yourself or someone else
Having difficulty adjusting to life
The information on the emotional wellbeing and mental health website can help children and young people understand some of their thoughts and feelings, as well as signposting relevant support. The content available will continue to evolve and develop, including guidance for parents and carers, sharing ways they can support children and young people during difficult times.
Visit the emotional wellbeing and mental health website here.
As part of the project, the Health Board’s Youth Board and Promo Cymru have created videos to help children and young people understand their emotional wellbeing and mental health. The videos were kindly funded by Cardiff & Vale Health Charity.
Ellis, Age 15, from Cardiff and Vale UHB Youth Board, said: “We’ve really enjoyed contributing to the Health Board’s new emotional wellbeing and mental health website and the videos, which included a TikTok video which was fun to make. It’s so important for people to look after themselves and people around them, we hope people find the information helpful.”
The Health Board is committed to developing the website in partnership with young people, parents and carers and welcome any feedback. Please email us at ewmh.cav@wales.nhs.uk.