Here are resources to help support parents and carers in supporting a young person with wellbeing and mental health concerns. You may also find it helpful to check out our Parents' Section including the directory of Support Resources Directory for Parents (link here).
Download our Parents & Carers pocket guide here which identifies both national and regional support options for Hounslow Borough.
What can you do to support a young person?
Being a parent or carer can be really tough at times, particularly when your child is in real emotional distress or when you are anxious about aspects of their behaviour. You may be feeling a whole variety of emotions, you may have tried many different approaches and find it hard to know what to do for the best to
support the young person.
- You are not alone!
There is plenty of help, advice and support available to support you. On the other side of this leaflet we have listed just a few suggestions of places for you to contact as a starting point.
Everyone is different but young people may respond more positively if you aim for the following in your approach:
- Stay calm – slow down, take a breath.
- Listen to the young person.
Let them know they can come to you for help. Give them the option to talk to you, if they want to.
- Be caring, understanding and supportive.
Involve the young person in any decision-making - ask them what they think might help them and encourage them to get that support.
- Be patient and also be honest about how you are feeling, you are human too!
- Help the young person to develop positive sleep routines and habits, helping to ensure they get enough sleep, and to maintain a healthy balanced diet. This will really help to make a difference.
- Research the problem or issue, becoming knowledgeable may help you feel calmer. (Check out our parent support resources here or our young persons support directory.
- Spend time with them if you can - in family activities or shared interests.
- Ask for help or advice if you feel problems are too much for you or your family to manage.
- Look after yourself too! Seek support to discuss your worries and try not to be too hard on yourself.
Need support for a young person?
HYCS 020 568 1818
Free confidential counselling support if you are 11-25 and live, work or study in Hounslow Borough. Ask the young person to call us to self refer.
Young Minds Parents Helpline
- 0808 802 5544 - parents@youngminds.org.uk
- Webchat & Email Service - use this link here.
Free confidential information and advice for adults worried about the emotional problems, behaviour or mental health of a young person up to age 25.
Family Lives' Helpline - 0808 800 2222
Free, confidential helpline offering information and
support on any aspect of parenting and family life.
Family Information Service (FIS) and Directory (FISD)N - Hounslow Borough - 020 8583 3470
Information service & directory for parents/carers
of young people aged 0-19.
CAMHS DUTY LINE (Hounslow Borough) - 020 8483 2050 Daily from 12.00hrs – 14.00hrs.
CAMHS (Child Adolescent Mental Health Service)
HOUNSLOW IAPT 0300 123 0739
IAPT (Improving Access to Psychological Therapies)
is a talking therapy service.
EARLY HELP HOUNSLOW (EHH) 0208 583 6600 option 1 earlyhelp@hounslow.gov.uk
Information service & directory for parents/carers of
young people aged 0-19.
GINGERBREAD 0808 802 0925
Free call, support and expert advice for lone parents.
BACP – FIND A THERAPIST
BACP (British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy) resources for anyone seeking to find a therapist.
