Supporting children

Overview

A child’s emotional wellbeing and mental health is shaped by both their biology, and the environment in which they live and grow.

Childhood is an important stage for building social and emotional skills to cope with challenges in life. Growing up in a supportive environment may help a child to learn to express thoughts and feelings, and to manage their behaviour. They may also be better able to form healthy relationships with others. Yet, some children who grow up in healthy environments can also develop mental health problems.

Trauma, neglect, forced removal or abandonment can have a major impact on a child's mental health throughout their life. Often mental health problems that arise in adolescence or adulthood are linked to negative experiences as a child. Many families that have a child who has been diagnosed with a mental health condition may need support to understand, accept their child's needs, and help the child through it. Good support and ongoing management are key to recovery.