Mental Health

Prioritising Mental Health and Wellbeing at Brantridge School

At Brantridge School, we place a strong emphasis on mental health and wellbeing through a holistic approach. We believe that the wellbeing of not only our pupils, but also that of parents, caregivers, and staff is crucial.

In September 2024, we introduced myHappymind program, which is designed with a systemic approach and includes three essential components:

  • A program for children, primarily consisting of digital lessons supplemented by physical resources, interactive games and quizzes
  • A Parent App to assist parents at home.
  • A CPD certified Staff Wellbeing Program aimed at supporting the wellbeing of all staff members, both teaching and non-teaching.

myHappymind teaches a vital life skill that helps individuals reach their full potential. We conduct weekly lessons in every class centered around emotions, self-care, appreciation, friendships, and strengths. However, our commitment extends beyond these lessons; we aim to integrate the habits we learn into our everyday lives.

The free Parent App is readily accessible to all Brantridge families, allowing them to explore the Science of Happiness and access a variety of resources, including games, songs, Happy Breathing techniques, and much more from the comfort of their homes. Come and see what’s inside!

https://myhappymind.lpages.co/myhappymind-parent-app-introduction

To enhance this program, we organize numerous awareness events aimed at encouraging our pupils to recognize the importance of charities and the work they do for those in greatest need.

The Importance of Raising Mental Health Awareness

We believe that promoting awareness during events like Children’s Mental Health Week, Children in Need, and Mental Health Week is essential. By fostering discussions about mental health, we can offer support to pupils and students facing difficulties, helping them feel less alone and reassuring them that others share similar experiences. Additionally, it emphasizes the presence of individuals ready to help.

Our Mental Health Lead offers both group sessions and individual meetings to support pupils with a range of challenges, including emotional regulation, building confidence, forming and maintaining friendships, coping with loss, and self-care.

The Importance of Open Conversations About Mental Health

Mental health is a topic that deserves open discussion, rather than being treated as a formality. Incorporating mental health education in school benefits everyone by promoting well-being, increasing awareness, and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues.

Happymind 1     Happymind 2

Happymind 3     Happymind 4  

      

 

 

 

 

 

Helpful Links for Parents and Guardians

Anna Freud Centre

Website: www.annafreud.org

Phone: 0207 794 2313

Email: info@annafreud.org

The Anna Freud Centre is a children’s mental health charity providing specialist help and training.

Childline

Website: www.childline.org.uk

Phone: 0800 1111

Childline is a free and confidential counselling service available to parents, children and young people.

Mind

Website: www.mind.org.uk

Phone: 0300 123 3393 (weekdays 9-5)

Text: 86463

Email: info@mind.org

Mind is a mental health charity offering a range of materials about mental health. It also provides details of local Mind Associations.

NHS Choices

Website: www.nhs.uk

Phone: 111

The NHS Choices website provides information and advice about all aspects of health. Calls are free from landlines and mobile phones.

YoungMinds

Website: www.youngminds.org.uk

Phone: 0808 802 5544 (weekdays 9:30-4)

YoungMinds is the UK’s leading charity committed to improving the emotional wellbeing and mental health of children and young people.

YoungMinds Parents’ Helpline

Website: www.youngminds.org.uk/find-help/for-parents/parents-helpline

Phone: 0808 802 5544 (weekdays 9:30-4)

Email: parents@youngminds.org.uk

YoungMinds Parent’s Helpline offers free confidential support to any adult worried about the emotional wellbeing, behaviour or mental health of a child or young person.