Health and Wellbeing

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Did you know that health is made up of physical, mental and social health and that all of these things are connected? If one area of our health isn’t good this will affect the other areas.

For example, when you are feeling anxious:

Physically, you may experience more aches and pains, changes to your appetite or your heart may beat faster.

Emotionally, you may notice changes to mood, for example you may feel sad and tearful and experience increased feelings of panic, or feel overwhelmed.

Socially, you may not want to go out, interact or socialise with others and this in turn can make you feel lonely and disconnected from others.

Our thoughts have a big impact on how we feel and the way we behave. Everyone experiences feelings and emotions such as anxiety, fear, sadness or anger. As time passes things change and how you feel will change. A feeling in this moment is not forever and there is always hope for things to be different.

Read the Young Person’s Mental Health Guide to learn more about health and wellbeing. It includes lots of ideas to support you and the ways to manage your thoughts and emotions.

Here are five simple tips to practice every day to help your health and wellbeing:

Talk to someone and ask for help.

At times we can all struggle with our emotions. Whatever is worrying you, there is always someone that you can talk to. Whether it’s someone in your family, someone who cares for you, a teacher or another adult in your school or club. If you want to speak to someone else then Childline is a safe space where you can talk about absolutely anything! You can contact Childline for free on 0800 1111 or visit the Childline website for advice.

Remember! Everyone deserves to feel safe and happy online and offline. If someone or something is making you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, even if you’re not sure, then it’s important to talk about it.

Eat well, keep well.

What we eat and drink each day has a big impact on our health. Be mindful of the foods and drinks you consume because what you eat and drink affects your mood, energy levels and quality of sleep.

Limit screen time.

Sometimes people can spend too long on their phones, games and other devices and this can affect their mood, sleep and amount of physical activity. Be careful and control how much time you spend on a screen. Make sure your health and wellbeing always comes first.

Be active.

Getting enough natural daylight and physical activity causes chemical changes in the brain which can make you feel good. Do an activity that you enjoy – go for a walk or run, cycle, play a game, garden or dance. Join a sports club in your school or in your community.

Sleep well.

Sleeping every night is an important part of life and is directly linked to your overall health and wellbeing. Your body is designed to sleep so that you can effectively cope with the rest of your day. Blue light from devices can disrupt sleep, so switch off your phones/screens at least one hour before bedtime. Unwind and take time to relax. Keep your bedroom phone/gadget free and ensure it is quiet, cool and dark. If you are worried about sleep then ask for help.

Get Support

Police Service of Northern Ireland

If someone or something is making you feel scared, threatened or distressed, report it to the police by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency.

Trusted Adults

If you are worried or concerned about something, please make sure you speak to an adult you trust.

Childline

You can contact Childline about anything. Whatever your worry, it’s better out than in. They’re here to support you.

Text-A-Nurse

This is a local service service for confidential text messaging support for 11-19 year olds.

Learn More

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