Mental Wellbeing

Mental wellbeing refers to how a young person thinks, feels, and copes with everyday life, including their ability to manage stress, build resilience, learn effectively, and maintain a sense of balance and purpose. The UK Government describes mental wellbeing as the ability to “realise one’s abilities, cope with the normal stresses of life, work productively and contribute to the community.” (gov.uk) While mental wellbeing is closely linked to emotional wellbeing, there is a distinction: mental wellbeing is a broader concept relating to overall psychological functioning and cognitive health, whereas emotional wellbeing focuses more specifically on recognising, understanding, and managing feelings. In young people, mental wellbeing can be affected by a range of pressures including academic demands, social relationships, family circumstances, online influences, and changes associated with adolescence. Difficulties in this area may present as anxiety, low mood, withdrawal, changes in behaviour, or reduced engagement with school and daily activities. Supporting positive mental wellbeing is essential in helping young people develop confidence, resilience, and the ability to thrive both in and beyond school.