Introduction
“Mental health is a state of well-being in which every individual realises his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community.” (World Health Organization 2014)
Mental Health, whether it is children or adults, can have a rather negative stigma attached to it, yet we believe that by raising the profile of this very important issue then only good things can come from it. Children’s mental health and well-being is being reported on more and more, as you may have come across in the news quite frequently over the last few months. With a range of issues surrounding social media, selfesteem, social mobility and diet, among many others, it is clear that there is a nationwide concern emerging around children’s mental health – to the extent where the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have pledged to offer their time and support.
What’s also apparent is that this issue is not specific to any particular age group, with children in primary schools, secondary schools and further education being recognised. It is fair to say that there is no ‘magic fix’ to this, but at St. John Bosco School we always try to support children’s mental health and any worries they may have.
