Starting a new school year, moving to secondary school, beginning college or university, starting an apprenticeship or entering the workplace are important milestones in a young person's life.

While these changes often bring excitement, they can also create feelings of anxiety, uncertainty and pressure.

For Youth Mental Health Awareness Day, we're highlighting the importance of supporting young people through transitions and sharing practical ways families, carers and teachers can help.

Change affects everyone differently

Some young people settle into new environments quickly, while others need more time to adapt to unfamiliar routines, expectations and social situations.

These challenges can be particularly significant for neurodivergent young people, including those who are autistic and/or have ADHD.

Joshua Hosking, 18, an Involvement Representative for NELFT, who is autistic, and helped create the Neurodiversity Support Pack in Southend, says understanding how to ask for support can be a challenge.

"A lot of people, particularly those who are neurodivergent, aren't always sure how to advocate for themselves and make sure they're getting the reasonable adjustments they need in education or at work. This means that your needs aren’t being met.”

Helping young people understand their needs and access support can play an important role in protecting their mental wellbeing during periods of change.

Clinical Psychologist working in the Mental Health Support Team (MHST) at NELFT, Roksana Ilkow Siuda said, “Good mental health is fundamental to helping young people learn, grow and achieve their ambitions. Through our work in schools and colleges, Mental Health Support Teams (MHSTs) provide an early intervention and prevention offer, delivering evidence-based interventions grounded in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for children and young people experiencing mild to moderate mental health difficulties. This includes 1:1 or targeted group interventions for secondary school-aged young people experiencing anxiety and/or low mood, alongside parent-led interventions for younger children experiencing anxiety and behavioural difficulties. As MHST, we also work collaboratively with schools to establish a whole-school approach to mental health, ensuring mental health is integrated into the school culture. By working closely with families, schools and colleges, we help build resilience, develop coping skills and ensure young people receive the right support at the right time."

 

Tips for parents and carers

Make time to check in

Ask open questions such as:

• "How are you feeling about the changes you've experienced recently?"
• "What's gone well so far?"
• "Is there anything you're finding difficult?"

Listen without rushing to solve the problem

Sometimes young people simply need to feel heard and understood.

Validate worries and concerns

Feeling nervous about change is completely normal. Acknowledging these feelings can help young people feel supported.

Rebuild healthy routines

Sleep, exercise, regular meals and balanced screen use can help create stability and predictability during times of adjustment.

Celebrate small wins

Whether it's making a new friend, attending a new class or managing a challenging situation, recognising progress helps build confidence.

Look after yourself too

Young people often take cues from the adults around them. Demonstrating healthy coping strategies can help them develop their own resilience.

Advice for teachers and education professionals

Remember that adjustment takes time

Even several weeks into a new term, some students may still be adapting to changes.

Provide clear communication

Knowing what to expect can reduce anxiety and help young people feel more confident.

Create opportunities for conversation

Regular check-ins and supportive relationships can make it easier for students to seek help when they need it.

Understand individual needs

Some young people may require additional support or reasonable adjustments to help them succeed. Accepting that young people might ask questions about why they are being asked to do tasks. They are not being difficult or challenging, but they might just need to know the rationale. Take time to answer questions.

Foster a sense of belonging

Feeling accepted, included and connected can have a positive impact on mental wellbeing and educational outcomes.

Transitions can be challenging, but they also provide opportunities to learn, grow and develop new strengths.

With the right support from families, friends, teachers and professionals, young people can successfully navigate change and build confidence for the future.

Remember: adjusting takes time, and no one has to face difficult feelings alone.

If you need support

• Childline: 0800 1111 | childline.org.uk
• Shout: Text SHOUT to 85258 for free, confidential 24/7 support
• Web address: Resource Hub | NELFT NHS Foundation Trust