Mental Health Awareness Week is our chance to shine a spotlight on an often-unspoken part of our lives: our mental well-being. As students, teachers, parents and staff, we all experience challenges, stress, and moments when we feel overwhelmed. This is why Mental Health Awareness Week is so important; it is time to reflect, learn and support one another in creating a more understanding and compassionate school environment. Mental health issues amongst young people are on the rise, with increasing numbers experiencing anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. According to Mind, 1 in 6 young people in England aged 5 to 16 experienced a mental health problem in 2020, up from 1 in 9 in 2017. The pressures of academic performance, social media, and the transition to adulthood can significantly impact their mental well-being. 

Why does Mental Health Matter?

Many people struggle in silence, unsure how to express their feelings or seek help. In school, we often focus on grades, exams, and deadlines, but mental well-being is just as crucial. Just as our academic growth shapes our future, our mental well-being moulds our daily experiences, relationships, and aspirations. When stress, anxiety, or overwhelming pressure arise, it affects every aspect of our lives. Good mental health helps us build resilience, form connections, and cope with life’s challenges. This week is a reminder that every feeling matters, and every challenge is an opportunity to learn and become stronger.

How can we support each other?

Let's take small steps to make a big difference:

• Check in with friends – A simple "How are you?" can mean a lot.
• Talk about emotions – It's okay to express feelings and ask for help.
• Practice Self-Care: Dedicate time to activities that destress you. Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s the foundation for being there for others.
• Be kind – A supportive word or action can brighten someone's day.

Our school’s role in creating a positive environment.

In our school, we believe that learning happens in many ways, not only in the classroom but also within the warmth of a supportive community. As a school, we are committed to building a community where every voice is heard, every struggle is acknowledged, and every individual is valued. Together we can break the stigma surrounding mental health and create a school culture where everyone feels valued and heard. Let’s be there for each other, not just this week but every week.

Resources and Support

Reading can be a great way for students to unwind and escape from the pressures of daily life. Even a few minutes of reading can significantly lower stress levels. Regular reading has also been linked to reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety. It provides a healthy distraction and helps students manage their emotions better. A study involving over 10,000 adolescents found that those who read for pleasure for about 12 hours a week showed improved brain structure and mental health, including reduced stress and depression. Our academy library has a wide range of books available all year round for anyone in our school community to borrow which can help with your reading escapism - both fiction and non-fiction, as well as those with a focus on mental health and well-being. 

Organisations such as Kooth and Young Minds are leading the way in delivering essential support to young people. Kooth is an online platform which can help young people with their mental health. It is a welcoming space to safely explore your feelings. You can talk anonymously to other people your own age on moderate discussion forums and chat with mental health professionals, all for free. Young Minds offers advice and information. They offer textline support, support for parents and careers, as well as community and activities where you can learn how different sports can help manage mental health.

There are a huge number of resources which can help, but if you are struggling, then tell a trusted adult and seek the help that will get you through it.  

For more information and resources, students may visit the academy library during break and lunch, whilst websites such as Kooth, Young Minds and the academy's safeguarding pages are available to all including parents/carers.