identify in the pre-adolescent. In a crisis situation you should contact the parent/carer urgently. Offering to explore helpful solutions and signposting together is a good starting point for both the pre-adolescent and their parent/ carer. If appropriate, talk the parent/carer through the professional help and treatment options, and remind them that young people have a better chance of recovery if help is sought early. Before you approach their parent/carer you should ask the pre- adolescent whether they would like to explain how they are feeling, or if they would like you to speak on their behalf. Tell the pre-adolescent what you intend to share and make sure they are comfortable with it. When speaking to a parent/carer, you may be met with feelings of defensiveness, shock, upset, or guilt. Despite this it is an important part of ensuring the pre-adolescent gets the appropriate help. You may also find that providing MHFA to the parent/carer is appropriate in this situation. During the conversation, if the parent/carer doesn’t have much knowledge about mental health then it would be helpful to share basic information. Such information might include: – It is normal for feelings to change throughout the day, but we should not be feeling high levels of anxiety, stress, or fear either (this information is especially useful to the pre-adolescent). – Pre-adolescents who feel supported by those around them recover faster - listening is more supportive in the long-run than giving excessive reassurance (125). – Maintaining a routine for a pre-adolescent can build a sense of security. – Pre-adolescents should be encouraged to be open about their feelings, ask questions, and think for themselves about what they need (126).
Page 137
Made with FlippingBook - Online magazine maker