Supporting your child’s mental health and wellbeing
We understand worrying about your child’s mental health can feel
overwhelming. You might be unsure where to turn, what support is available, or how to start conversations with your child.
You’re not alone and you’re not expected to have all the answers.
We’re here to offer clear, compassionate support. We know that navigating the system around children’s mental health can feel confusing.
This is why we’ve brought together trusted information, tools, and local services in one place to help you feel more confident and informed.
You’re not alone
and you’re not
expected to have
all the answers.
Getting Advice And Signposting
For when you are looking for general guidance or want more support for your child
If you’re a parent looking for guidance, or a simple way to support your child with their thoughts and feelings, this is a great place to start.
Wysa app
Wysa is a free, confidential NHS-approved mental health app for young people aged 13 to 18 (or 11+ with parental support). It includes an AI chatbot, mood tracking and resilience tools. Your young person can download the app by accessing the links below.
How to Access
Once downloaded, enter a referral code: tsidecyp2025 when asked.
Our FAQ leaflet to help answer any questions you or your child may have. View the leaflet here.
Parent workshops and training
Learn more about children’s emotional needs and hear from other parents who’ve been there.
The sessions help you build confidence and feel better equipped.
You can find more information here
Information on Mental Health topics
You can access reliable, easy-to-understand information about a range of common mental health issues such as anxiety, low mood, self-harm and more.
Getting Help
For when your child is struggling with anxiety, low mood, and other challenging emotions.
Mental Health support in school
Every school in Tees Valley has a mental health lead or a point of contact. You can speak directly to them. With your consent, they can contact our team to explore options such as:
- school-based support
- learning and support sessions
for children and their families - referral to mental health
services
Primary Care Mental Health nurses
Some GP practices have nurses trained in children’s mental health. They can assess, offer brief interventions and signpost to the right service. Speak to your GP surgery for more information.
Request for Help
You can refer your child to us with their consent.
We understand it can be frustrating when a child isn’t ready to engage.
In these situations, we can support you as a parent or carer with advice, guidance, or help accessing groups, so you can support your child when they’re ready.
Parent Led Support groups
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) is an informed programme to help you manage your child’s anxiety and behaviour using CBT techniques.
Investing in Play Programme
Investing in Play is designed to help you manage difficult and challenging behaviours, especially in children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or autism. It supports your own well-being by building confidence, reducing stress and strengthening your relationship with your child.
Looking after you
Supporting a child through emotional or mental health challenges can be very hard and your wellbeing matters too. It’s okay to feel stressed, anxious, or unsure. Looking after your own mental health helps you be the best support for your child. Find support for yourself through Impact.
Getting More Help and Risk Support
For children who may need more extensive mental health care.
Do you need urgent support?
Sometimes children and young people need extra help for more complex mental health difficulties, such as psychosis, eating disorders, help to stay safe, or when medication may be needed. In these situations, we can help you get the right support.
If you think your child is in a mental health crisis or you are worried about their immediate safety, please contact NHS 111 and choose option 2. In an emergency, call 999 or visit the nearest A&E.
Support for children who may be Autistic or may have ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
If you’re concerned we’re here to help.
Children who are autistic, have ADHD or other neurological differences may still experience things like anxiety, low mood, or emotional distress. Our team is trained to work in a neurodiversity-affirming way, tailoring support to each child’s needs with or without a diagnosis.
Children can access help based on what they’re struggling with. We understand that waiting for assessments or diagnoses can be stressful and uncertain. While you’re waiting, support is still available. In the first instance, you may want to seek advice and support from Daisy Chain Family Support Service. Alternatively, you can get more information and support from the NHS North East and North Cumbria Neurodevelopment Pathway to see what else is available in your area.