Keeping Safe

COVID-19 has changed all our lives, causing disruption to our daily routines. Not going to school, to your usual clubs or activities and being away from friends can make you feel angry, stressed or anxious. Many young people are finding this time difficult.

There is no right or wrong way to feel. These may be new emotions or the current situation could be exaggerating feelings you already had before.

Talking to someone you trust is often the first step to feeling better. They might be a parent or carer, teacher or family relative or even a good friend. You may find that your friends feel the same way.

You can also talk to Kent Youth Health.

If you are aged between 11 and 19 you can text ChatHealth on 07520618850 for anonymous and confidential support for any emotional or physical health problem (Monday – Friday, 9am-5pm). Find out more at ChatHealth.

If you need urgent help outside those hours you can contact ChildLine on 0800 1111 or access their webchat .

If you are in immediate danger then please call 999.

You can also access the Children and Young People’s Counselling service. A youth counsellor will help you develop strategies to feel better.  You can also use this service to speak to our bereavements counsellors  if you have lost someone you were close to, to the Coronavirus.  Text ChatHealth on 07520618850 and ask for counselling, call 0300 123 4496 or complete the online referral.

We also recommend Kooth, an excellent website for any young person in Kent, with online counselling.  Kooth counsellors are available 12 – 10pm every day.

Moodsparks has been created by young people in Kent to help other young people develop their emotional resilience.

If you unsure of what help you need then you can call 0300 123 4496 and Kent Youth Health will work out how to support you. Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm.