Woolston Brook School

By Mark Cullen 5/2/25

Children's Mental Health Week is an important annual event dedicated to raising awareness about the mental health and well-being of children and young people. This year it was celebrated between the 3rd and 9th of February 2025.  Established by the charity Place2Be in 2015, this initiative has steadily gained momentum, aiming to highlight the significance of mental health in the formative years of life. The theme this year is "Know Yourself, Grow Yourself", which encourages children to delve into self-awareness and express their emotions—essential skills that foster resilience and a deeper understanding of oneself.

Celebrating Children's Mental Health Week in schools holds utmost importance for various reasons. Firstly, it serves to raise awareness about the mental health challenges faced by children today, helping to reduce the stigma associated with such issues. Too often, mental health is seen as a taboo topic, leading children and young people to suffer in silence. By openly discussing mental health during this week, schools empower students to recognise that they are not alone and that it's perfectly acceptable to talk about their feelings and challenges.

Moreover, early intervention plays a crucial role in supporting mental well-being. By promoting mental health awareness, schools can better identify students who may be struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, or stress. This proactive approach allows educators to offer timely support, ensuring that children do not feel isolated or overwhelmed by their emotions. The earlier we can intervene, the more effective the support we can provide.

Creating a supportive environment in schools is another essential aspect of celebrating Children's Mental Health Week. This event fosters a culture of openness, where children feel comfortable discussing their feelings and seeking help when necessary. This nurturing environment not only benefits students but also encourages parents and staff to engage in conversations about mental health, extending the message beyond school walls.

Building resilience is another vital outcome of this annual event. Teaching children about mental health and providing them with coping strategies equips them to handle stress more effectively. As they learn to recognise and manage their emotions, children become better prepared to face life's challenges. In a world where pressures are continually evolving, such skills are invaluable. 

Additionally, Children's Mental Health Week empowers children to take charge of their mental health and well-being. It encourages them to understand that they have the right to express their thoughts and feelings.

Celebrating Children's Mental Health Week in schools plays a pivotal role in promoting the mental health and well-being of students. The initiative ensures they have the support and resources they need to thrive. By embracing the theme "Know Yourself, Grow Yourself", we not only raise awareness but also equip children with essential tools for their emotional and mental development. 

The more we can understand about ourselves, the easier it will be to tackle the challenges that life throws at us. Understandin ourselves is called self awareness. This includes knowing what we are good at, what we find challenging, what makes us happy or sad, what we are afraid of and what we are looking forward to. As we learn more about ourselves, it becomes easier to make connections with other people. This is essential for forming good relationships throughout our lives.

AnnaMarie Ellis, Assistant HEadteacher