Children’s Mental Health Week: Every Young Mind Matters​

Children’s Mental Health Week is a reminder that how young people feel matters.

Behind school bags, exam timetables, group chats and busy lives, many children and teenagers are carrying worries that feel heavy and hard to explain.

Across the UK, around 1 in 5 children and young people experience mental health challenges. We’re seeing more young people feeling anxious, low, stressed or overwhelmed.

If you’re a young person reading this – or you care about one – you’re not alone. And support is available.

At Mind in Harrogate District, we’re here to listen. We’re local. And we care deeply about the young people in our community.

A safe space to talk

Sometimes the most powerful thing is simply being heard.

Our Young People’s Mental Health Drop-In offers a calm, confidential space where 11–18 year olds can talk one-to-one with a qualified mental health practitioner.

You might come along if:

  • You’re feeling low, stressed or worried
  • You need somewhere non-judgemental to talk
  • You’d like help finding coping strategies
  • You’re waiting for other support and want to speak to someone in the meantime

There’s no referral needed. No appointment. Just come along.

Wednesdays, 3–6pm
Acorn Centre, 101a Station Parade, Harrogate, HG1 1HB

If you’re under 13, you’ll need to come with a parent or carer.

It’s not a youth club and it’s not a crisis service. It’s simply a safe space to talk and be listened to.

Counselling for young people

For some young people, talking things through regularly with the same counsellor can make a real difference.

We offer professional, confidential counselling for young people aged 11–18 living in Harrogate District.

Our counsellors can support with:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression and low mood
  • Stress
  • Bereavement and loss
  • Low self-esteem
  • Relationship difficulties
  • Big life changes

You’ll have weekly 50-minute sessions in a supportive, respectful environment. We usually recommend at least 10 sessions, with up to 20 available depending on need.

We know it can feel daunting to ask for help. That’s why we work at your pace, listen without judgement and focus on what matters to you.

£10 per session
01423 503335
[email protected]

There can be a waiting time due to high demand, but we’ll always be honest and supportive about what to expect.

Supporting young people where they are

Good mental health support shouldn’t only begin when things reach crisis point.

We deliver interactive wellbeing workshops in schools and youth settings across Harrogate District. These sessions are designed to build confidence, understanding and practical tools in environments where young people already feel comfortable.

We cover topics such as:

  • Managing anxiety and exam stress
  • Challenging unhelpful thoughts
  • Bullying and cyberbullying
  • Social media and body image
  • Self-esteem and resilience
  • Supporting a friend who is struggling

Early conversations can help prevent small worries from becoming overwhelming.

If you’re a school or youth organisation and would like to work with us, please get in touch:
[email protected]
01423 503335

If you need urgent help

Mind in Harrogate District is not a crisis service.

If you or someone you know needs urgent or emergency support, please contact NHS crisis services or emergency services. You can find details of local crisis support on our website.

Children’s Mental Health Week isn’t just about raising awareness. It’s about creating a culture where young people feel safe to say:

“I’m not okay.”
“I’m struggling.”
“I need some help.”

As a local charity, rooted in this community, we understand the pressures young people here are facing. We’re proud to offer accessible, affordable support close to home.

Every young person deserves to feel heard.
Every young person deserves support.
Every young mind matters. 

 
 
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