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Awareness

Empowering Young People During School Holidays

Elspeth Coutts | August 7 2023
< 1 min read

School holidays, those precious childhood days that seemed to last forever. However, for some young people, those long unstructured weeks away from the security and safety of school can induce feelings of isolation, anxiety or uncertainty.

Transitioning from a busy school environment to weeks without a structured routine can be a difficult adjustment and sometimes result in loneliness. It’s important to ensure those young people in particular feel heard and have a safe way to document their feelings and share what’s going on in their lives.

Tackling loneliness and spotting safeguarding concerns

Charities such as Young Minds offer a number of practical resources, blogs and helplines to help young people tackle loneliness and offer support over the holidays. In addition, digital participation tools such as the One app are a fantastic way to check in with harder-to-reach young people over the break to make sure the most vulnerable are also heard. The One app allows young people and children to organise their thoughts and stay connected with their support networks. Through simple prompts and opportunities to expand on a topic, children and young people can speak honestly about how they feel in real-time and flag any safeguarding concerns.

As the school summer holidays continue, Mind Of My Own Apps can be a vital lifeline for individuals who are struggling and support practitioners over the period as well. By fostering authentic communication, maintaining supportive connections, and encouraging goal-setting, our digital tools equip young people with the tools they need to make the most of the holidays.

Tips for young people struggling with their mental health during the holidays (Young Minds)

  • Try to stay connected in small ways, a simple text, phone call or DM can help you feel less isolated
  • Structure your day and create a holiday routine
  • Keep active, even if the weather is bad try and find ways to get some fresh air and move your body
  • Rest, the holidays are for relaxing after all! Make sure you’re giving yourself an opportunity to take a break.