Understanding Children and Young People’s Mental Health

Statistics show that the prevalence of mental ill health among children and young people is increasing. One in eight people aged 5 to 19 now have a diagnosable mental health condition, such as an anxiety disorder, depression or a conduct disorder. This equates to three in every classroom!

Appropriate support and understanding are vital. Without this, a child with mental health difficulties is likely to become an adult with mental health difficulties too. We now know that half of all mental health problems experienced by adults first manifest themselves by the age of 14, yet only three in four children and young people with a diagnosable condition access the support they need.

This course aims to increase candidates’ knowledge and awareness of children and young people’s mental health. They will explore the factors that make an individual more vulnerable to developing mental ill health as well as the factors that can protect their well-being. Perhaps most importantly, they will look at how the care, compassion and vigilance of others can support children and young people to bounce back from setbacks and successfully deal with the challenges they may face during their childhood and teenage years.

This fully funded open learning course is FREE to all Scottish residents.