The psychological and emotional development of a child or young person can be a complex process. For many reasons, children and adolescents can develop anxieties, which seem to be out of the ordinary, or their mood can seem lower than that of their peers.
This difference may establish patterns of unhealthy thoughts and behaviours that can create trauma during their developmental stages. Just like adults, children and young people also face challenges in their lives from time to time. We recognise that every child and young person is unique, with different factors contributing to their difficulties, emotions and behaviours.
Andy only works with adults from the age of 18 years and upwards.
what is CAMHS?
- CAMHS stands for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services.
- CAMHS are the NHS services that assesses and treat young people with emotional, behavioural or mental health difficulties.
- CAMHS support covers depression, problems with food, self-harm, abuse, violence or anger, bipolar, schizophrenia and anxiety, to name a few.
- There are local NHS CAMHS services around the UK, with teams made up of nurses, therapists, psychologists, support workers and social workers, as well as other professionals.
- Including CAMHS in private therapeutic work can be discussed at the outset of therapy with Andy.
Multiple factors determine the mental health of an adolescent at any one time. The more risk factors adolescents are exposed to, the greater the potential impact on their mental health. Factors which can contribute to stress during adolescence include a desire for greater autonomy, pressure to conform with peers, exploration of sexual identity, and increased access to and use of technology.
Media influence and gender norms can exacerbate the disparity between an adolescent's lived reality and their perceptions or aspirations for the future. Other important determinants for the mental health of adolescents are the quality of their home life and their relationships with their peers.
Violence (including harsh parenting and bullying) and socio-economic problems are recognised risks to mental health. Children and adolescents are especially vulnerable to sexual violence, which has a clear association with detrimental mental health.
You can contact Childline about anything. Whatever your worry, it's better out than in. They can support you and help you find ways to cope. You can talk to Childline about anything. No problem is too big or too small.
Call them free on 0800 1111 or get in touch online. However you choose to contact them, you're in control. It's confidential and you don't have to give your name if you don't want to.
When you call Childline you'll come through to their switchboard. This is where someone friendly will ask if you want to speak to a counsellor - you might wait a little while before being connected with a counsellor.
