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Eurochild has published a report on children's perceptions of mental health. This follows consultations with 134 children from the ages of 6-17 of National Eurochild Forums in Bulgaria, Croatia, Estonia and Malta.
The consultation brings children’s voices into the conversation on mental health and serves as a reminder that children have a right to share their perspectives, voice their opinions and have their recommendations heard.
The report looks at how children understand the causes, manifestations, and effects of mental health, to provide a space for children to voice their opinions and concerns, and finally, to hear their ideas on what needs to change.
Six questions
- How would you define mental health?
- What can affect children’s mental health?
- What is necessary for children to feel safe and comfortable to confide in someone?
- Who can you talk to regarding your mental health?
- Are there signs by which you can recognise someone is struggling in your environment?
- How can adults ensure children have good mental health?
Six insights
- Good mental health is more than just the absence of problems; it is a sense of inner peace and stability
- The stigma surrounding mental health makes it more difficult to seek help
- The importance of safe spaces where children can express themselves without fear of judgment
- Free and better access to mental health services is needed, particularly within schools
- The role of hobbies, time in nature, and friendships to help maintain good mental health
- Children urged parents and teachers to listen with empathy and not dismiss their struggles
Download the full report (in English)