Mental Health & Wellbeing - Advice & Support

We know that life has not been easy for people recently, and that the pandemic has left many of us feeling anxious and uncertain. Creative activities can be a very positive way of expressing worries and fears. It is more important than ever to take time for self-care and to take steps to support our mental wellbeing. 

If you do have worries, or if creating your YCA entry has caused you to reflect on your own anxieties, there are many organisations you can contact who will always want to hear from you.

Here are some links you may find helpful:

Every Mind Matters is an NHS website full of mental health and self-care tips for young people.

New Youth is the youth advisory group of the Nottingham-based Institute of Mental Health. This have produced this brilliant booklet to help other young people with their mental health. 

Young Minds is the UK’s leading charity fighting for children and young people’s mental health. Their website has excellent advice and support on how to take better care of yourself.

Childline is a free service to help anyone under 19 in the UK with any issue they’re going through. Whether it’s something big or small, Childline’s trained counsellors are there to support you.

Kooth provides online counselling and free, safe, anonymous support for children and young people.

The Mix is the UK’s leading support service for young people. They can help you to take on any challenge you are facing - from mental health to money, from homelessness to finding a job, from break-ups to drugs. 

The Samaritans offers a safe place for you to talk any time you like, in your own way – about whatever’s getting to you.

Shout is the UK’s first 24/7 text service, free on all major mobile networks, for anyone in crisis anytime, anywhere. 

Cruse Bereavement Care offers telephone advice, email and website support for anyone who is dealing with grief or loss.

There is also specialist support out there for creative people. For instance the Film and TV Charity has a 24 helpline  as does Help Musicians UK.

Finally, follow Notts Creatives - our collective of former YCA winners and finalists who are dedicated to using creativity to improve the mental health of young people in Nottingham - for their Mindfulness Monday posts on Instagram.

If you are ever worried about your safety or the safety of others, speak to a trusted adult such as a parent, guardian, teacher or GP, present at your local A&E Department (providing this is appropriate) or, in an emergency, dial 999.