Mental health issues among young people are becoming increasingly visible across schools, families, and community settings. Emotional wellbeing plays a crucial role in a child or young person’s ability to learn, form relationships, and cope with everyday challenges. While it is normal for young people to experience mood changes as they grow, persistent or extreme changes in behaviour, emotions, or thinking may signal deeper mental health concerns. Adults working with children and young people need to recognise these early signs to provide timely support and prevent issues from escalating. Developing this awareness is a core part of professional responsibility within education, care, and youth services.
Emotional and Behavioural Changes That Raise Concern
One of the earliest indicators of mental health issues in young people is a noticeable change in emotional or behavioural patterns. This may include persistent sadness, frequent tearfulness, irritability, or emotional outbursts that seem disproportionate to situations. Some young people may withdraw from activities they previously enjoyed, becoming unusually quiet or disengaged from friends and family. Others may display increased anger, defiance, or risk-taking behaviour. These shifts are often misunderstood as typical adolescence, but when they last for weeks or intensify over time, they warrant attention. Professionals trained through the Diploma for the children and young people’s workforce are encouraged to observe patterns rather than isolated incidents, as consistency and duration are key indicators of underlying mental health challenges.
Changes in Social Interaction and Relationships
Mental health difficulties often affect how young people interact with others. A child or teenager may start avoiding social situations, isolating themselves during school or group activities, or expressing a strong fear of judgement. In contrast, some young people may become overly dependent on peers or adults, seeking constant reassurance. Difficulties maintaining friendships, sudden conflicts, or increased sensitivity to criticism can also be warning signs. These relational changes may stem from anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem. Recognising these shifts requires adults to build trusting relationships with young people, creating safe spaces where concerns can be shared openly. Understanding social behaviour is an essential element of effective practice promoted within the Diploma for the children and young people’s workforce framework.
Academic Performance and Concentration Difficulties
A decline in academic performance is another common sign that a young person may be struggling with their mental health. This could appear as reduced concentration, forgetfulness, lack of motivation, or frequent absences from school or training. Young people experiencing anxiety or depression often find it difficult to focus, complete tasks, or meet deadlines, even if they were previously high achievers. Physical complaints such as headaches or stomach aches may be used as reasons to avoid school-related stress. Adults working in educational or care settings should view these changes holistically rather than as disciplinary issues. Training aligned with the Diploma for the children and young people’s workforce highlights the importance of linking learning difficulties with emotional wellbeing rather than treating them in isolation.
Physical Signs and Changes in Daily Habits
Mental health issues frequently manifest through physical symptoms and altered daily routines. Young people may experience changes in sleep patterns, such as insomnia or excessive sleeping, which can further affect mood and concentration. Appetite changes, unexplained weight loss or gain, and persistent fatigue may also be present. Some young people neglect personal hygiene or show a lack of interest in self-care, while others may become overly concerned with their appearance. These physical indicators are often overlooked but can provide valuable insight into a young person’s emotional state. Professionals guided by the Diploma for the children and young people’s workforce are trained to recognise that physical and mental health are closely connected, particularly during critical developmental stages.
Expressions of Hopelessness, Anxiety, or Self-Harm
Perhaps the most concerning signs of mental health issues are verbal or behavioural expressions of hopelessness, intense anxiety, or self-harm. Young people may talk about feeling worthless, overwhelmed, or unable to cope with life’s demands. Anxiety may present as constant worry, panic attacks, or avoidance of specific situations. In some cases, self-harming behaviours or discussions about death may occur, even if framed as jokes or indirect comments. These signals should always be taken seriously and responded to promptly. Safeguarding guidance within the Diploma for the children and young people’s workforce emphasises the importance of listening without judgement, following reporting procedures, and ensuring appropriate support pathways are activated.
The Importance of Early Recognition and Professional Support
Early identification of mental health issues can significantly improve outcomes for young people. When concerns are recognised and addressed promptly, appropriate interventions can reduce long-term impact and support healthy emotional development. Adults working with children and young people play a vital role in observation, documentation, and communication with families and specialist services. Building confidence in recognising signs of mental health difficulties is not about diagnosing conditions but about responding responsibly and compassionately. Training programmes such as the Diploma for the children and young people’s workforce equip professionals with the knowledge and confidence needed to support wellbeing, promote resilience, and ensure that young people receive the help they need at the right time.
