Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust is backing Children’s Mental Health Week – 6-12 February 2023. This year’s theme is ‘Let’s Connect’ to encourage children (and adults) to consider how we can make meaningful connections that support our mental health.

The week is part of children’s mental health charity Place2Be’s national campaign, which aims to support children and young people’s mental health and emotional wellbeing.

Around half of all mental health illnesses begin by the age of 14. Preventing and identifying mental health issues as early as possible is crucial to effective treatment and recovery.

The Trust’s Children and Adolescent Mental Health Service, which support young people in Bradford, Airedale, Wharfedale and Craven experiencing emotional and mental health issues, will be reaching out to young people and their families during the week to encourage them to make meaningful connections.

Activities organised include assistant psychologists volunteering their time and interacting with parents and young people whilst waiting for their children in the waiting rooms to promoting meaningful connections.

A fun quiz for parents and children has also been designed to explore how well they know each other and to get to know each other slightly better. Example questions for the child to answer on behalf of the parent include: ‘If I had to share a lottery prize with one other family member, who would I choose?’ Or ‘Who was my role model when I was younger?’ A mixture of lighthearted and deep questions aim to promote meaningful interactions.

Ramsha Nasir, Assistant Psychologist at the Trust has been instrumental in spearheading many of the activities that will run during the week. Ramsha said: “We’re delighted to promote meaningful connections between parents and children and want to encouraging people to connect with each other in healthy, rewarding and meaningful ways during Children’s Mental Health Week.”

Sadie Booker, Head of Children and Adolescent Mental Health Service added: “We want to continue to help those most vulnerable before they become seriously unwell through early intervention and prevention services.  Whether it’s a teenager with an eating disorder or a young person whose life has been overshadowed by mental health difficulties such as depression and anxiety, we’re committed to ensuring those who experience mental health issues are offered caring support and are left feeling better-equipped with the right techniques to manage their mental health in the future.”

The Trust’s Children and Adolescent Mental Health Service is available to support young people in Bradford, Airedale, Wharfedale and Craven experiencing emotional and mental health issues. Referrals are accepted from a variety of health professionals, including GPs, hospital doctors, school nurses and health visitors. To find out more visit: https://www.bdct.nhs.uk/our-services/mental-health-services/child-and-adolescent-mental-health-service-camhs/

For information on all mental health and wellbeing support services in Bradford and Craven and self-help resources and apps, visit www.healthyminds.services.