In UK it is estimated that around 1 in 6 children have experienced a mental health problem. Many are have gone unrecognized.

We, at Your GP Circle, recognise and always take into consideration that children and young people’s emotional well-being is just as important as their physical health.

It can be difficult for children and young adults to understand and talk about the big emotions they may be feeling inside. As GPs it is not uncommon that we see children complain about physical symptoms as a way of communicating the difficulty they are facing emotionally.

As carers it can be difficult to know how to approach and talk to young people about the mental health problems or emotional distress they are experiencing.

Active Listening is a simple yet highly effective tool that can help support children and young people in these situations, and we would like to share with you how you can start this today.

Active listening involves three key things:

1. Not jumping in with a solution or offering your opinion. This can be a tough one when it feels instinctive to help solve the problem as soon as you hear about it or share your views on what is happening.

2. Repeat back what you have heard. This may sound simplistic, however, it is very helpful for children and young people to hear what they have said repeated. It gives them reassurance that you are understanding and acknowledging the things they have to say. If you can try to use the words they have spoken.

3. Avoid interrupting. Allow the child or young person to express fully what is happening and how it makes them feel.

Remember there are lots of people and organisations that you and the young person can turn to for help and advice. If you are concerned, speaking to their school and your GP is a good place to start. Book a face to face GP appointment in Sutton Coldfield with Your GP Circle here if you need further help.

Dr. Neha Sahay

GP and Medical Director at Your GP Circle