Your mental health and emotional wellbeing is very important. Mental health problems are more common than you might think - three children in every classroom have a mental health problem.

There are different types of mental illness and different types of treatments for them. But mental illness is something most people find hard to talk about. There are organisations that provide information about common mental health problems, how to cope with your feelings about it and where you can get more information and advice. Often they provide a helpline as well where you can speak to someone anonymously.

If you are worried about things such as eating disorders, depression, self harm and anxiety or someone in your family is suffering from mental illness - speak to someone about it like a teacher, parent, school nurse or a GP.

Where to get advice and help

Young Minds - information about many mental health issues and emotional well being.

Selfharm - information about self-harming.

Metro - advice for the LGBTQ community including mental health support

Childline - information about your own mental health and how to support family members with mental health issues

ChatHealth is a confidential school nurse messaging service for young people aged 11-19 years, living or attending school in Lambeth and Southwark. Young people can get advice and support about health related issues by messaging a school nurse Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm (automatic bounce-backs respond to incoming messages out of hours). The text number for ChatHealth is 07507 332 150.