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The GR8 Minds Podcast! With David Pugh, Shameem Koser and Lucy Owens. Starting in Summer 2022, we’ll be talking to guests from across your local community, looking at the best ways to look after your mental health. Click Here to listen now. |
Welcome to GR8 Minds!WACA's Children's Social Prescribing Service. |
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Click Here to view a list of all our services |
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Watch: What is GR8 Minds? |
In this video, Lucy Owens (From WACA) explains what our GR8 Minds Children's Mental Health Service is, and how you can access it. |
Mental health first aid tools
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ConnectionWhen we start to feel big emotions like sadness, loneliness and worry we can often stop doing things we used to enjoy and become isolated. If you notice this happening, plan to have at least one connection each day, whether that be texting a friend, meeting someone for a hot chocolate or going to a group or class. You may not always feel like it as it can take your mind a while to catch up – fake it until you make it! |
Notice and challenge unhelpful thoughtsThoughts are NOT facts! Our minds can be cruel and lead us towards unhelpful thinking patterns such as “no one likes me”, “I’m not good enough”, etc. Making space for more positive thinking can be helpful – it does however take some practice, just like when you learn a new skill. |
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Mindfulness and breathing exercisesTake 5–10 minutes each day to slow down and focus on relaxing. You can do this by trying out an exercise on a mindful app, practising yoga or some simple breathing exercises. Some people find imagery useful: create a happy place in your mind and escape there for a moment whenever you need to. |
Be aware of what’s normal
Between the ages of 12–24 your brain undergoes some BIG changes which lead to feelings being experienced more intensely (this is normal!). The area of your brain responsible for self-control, problem-solving, and good decision-making doesn’t catch up until your mid-twenties which can make adolescence feel like a roller coaster ride for some. |
Useful Self-Help Resources
Useful Websites
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Smartphone Apps1. Smiling Mind |
Suicidal thoughts and suicide prevention |
HelplinesNHS first response – 01274 221181 |
Information about drugswww.talktofrank |
If you need immediate help to keep safe call 999 or go straight to your nearest A&E.
Social PrescribingSocial prescribing is a term that means providing 1:1 support for young people.
Social prescribing is a term that means providing 1:1 support for young people. It can help with a range of issues such as:
You will have 1:1 support from a ‘link worker’ who will talk to you to see what help and support you could get from local services. Who is it for? Young people aged 5–18. How can I use the service? You can either talk to us directly or ask a teacher or parent/carer to contact us. We’ll arrange an appointment that can be at home, school or your GP practice. The appointment can be day time or in the evening. The appointment will last up to an hour. |
CounsellingCounselling is a talking therapy that involves a trained therapist listening to you and helping you find ways to deal with emotional issues.
Click Here to Self Refer Now |
8 Steps to Feel GR8 Today
1. Talk
2. Fuel Your Body
3. Sleep
4. Get Active
5. Relax
6. Be Kind to Yourself
7. Social Media