From the 1st – 7th Feb we are celebrating Children’s Mental Health Week and sharing some of our favourite resources which support children and young people. Since 2015 Place2Be have been shining a spotlight on mental health in under 18’s and this year’s focus is Express yourself!

‘Expressing yourself is about finding ways to share feelings, thoughts, or ideas, through creativity. This could be through art, music, writing and poetry, dance and drama, photography and film, and doing activities that make you feel good.’

Now more than ever it’s essential we look after ourselves and each other, this starts with supporting our mental health. From being creative to stepping away from social media, our Gallery Oldham approved list showcases some of the fantastic resources available from local and national organisations.

If you or someone you know is in need of support there are links to a number of charities at the bottom of this post who can offer support.

Start2 – A huge range of activities to suit all of your needs, suitable for mixed abilities and some of them focussing on beautiful artworks!

GM Care Kits – 36 pages of activities to support your mental health through these extremely difficult times, each activity has been added by an organisation in Greater Manchester.

Proud Trust – The Proud Trust are a Manchester based charity supporting young people who identify as LGBTQ+.

Action for children – A toolkit focussed on creative writing and sharing your thoughts and feelings through writing.

Therapy Comics – Non-text based resources for young people and children.

Wee Seeds – Toolbox full of resources for carers of children under 5

Boromi – Daily email resources for carers of children under 5

BBC Bitesize – Support for young adults on a variety of topics.

If you or someone you know is struggling please seek help; the following links will take you to support pages. If you require immediate support please contact your local A&E or by calling 999.

– Young Minds
– Mind
– 42nd Street

We would love to see how you are celebrating and supporting Children’s Mental Health week, remember to tag us and share any ways you are being creative to support your mental health.

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