To show support for Children’s Mental Health Week, ShawMind charity has encouraged residents across Sheffield to wear their quirkiest socks.
The campaign ‘Sock It To Stigma’ aims to highlight mental health taboos within schools and workplaces by sparking conversations around mental health with participation not just being a gesture, but a pledge to support the children who need it most.
CEO of ShawMind charity Peter Wingrove said;
“As Children’s Mental Health Week unfolds, it’s evident that we must address a pressing issue shrouded in silence. Children and young people must feel empowered to voice their feelings without fear of stigma. ShawMind’s #SockItToStigma campaign aims to break this silence and encourage vital conversations about mental health.”
Instances of bullying, both online and offline, have surged, with repercussions that extend far beyond the schoolyard, exacerbating anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues among the young.
Recent statistics paint a concerning picture of the state of Children’s Mental Health in the UK. One in six children aged 5 to 16 years is identified as having a probable mental disorder. This is a significant increase from one in nine just three years ago.
Wingrove added; “The statistics are a clarion call for a step-change in how we address children’s mental health in the UK. Investment in mental health services, particularly those tailored for children and adolescents, is crucial. Policies must evolve to meet the growing needs, with a focus on prevention, early intervention, and sustained support for those affected.”
The Charity emphasised the pivotal role Parents and teachers play in identifying and addressing the mental health needs of children and young people as early identification of mental health issues can lead to timely intervention, significantly improving outcomes for affected children.
Research commissioned by ShawMind points out that one in five school-age children refuse to attend school. Many children experience anxiety so intense that it impedes their ability to attend school.
The charity encourages educators across the UK to cultivate an atmosphere of openness and understanding, where children feel safe to express their feelings and struggles.
Wingrove adds; “Schools must be equipped with the resources and training to provide adequate support and referrals to mental health services when necessary.”
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