Every young person’s mental health journey is unique—but no one should feel they have to face it alone. That’s why we share stories: to connect, to learn, and to remind each other that hope and support are always possible.
This page is a space for young people, parents, carers, and professionals to share honest reflections about mental health—what helped, what didn’t, and what they’d like others to know.
These aren’t polished case studies. They’re human stories. Some are joyful, others painful, and many are still in progress. All are shared with care, respect, and the hope that they might help someone else.
Why Stories Matter
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They help us feel less alone
When someone shares a story that sounds even a little like ours, it can break down feelings of isolation. -
They change the conversation
Personal stories challenge stigma, encourage empathy, and bring nuance to how we talk about mental health. -
They inspire action
A single story can influence a teacher, a youth worker, or a policymaker to do things differently. -
They teach us what actually helps
Real experiences offer insight beyond statistics. They tell us what worked in everyday life—and what didn’t.
Who Shares Their Stories?
People from all walks of life. Some are children or teenagers navigating anxiety, low mood, or neurodivergent experiences. Others are young adults reflecting on their school years. Parents and carers offer perspective from the other side of the dinner table. Teachers, youth workers and counsellors share the challenges—and rewards—of supporting young people.
Each story is voluntary, anonymous or named by choice, and reviewed for sensitivity before being shared.
Types of Stories You’ll Find Here
🎧 Youth Voices
First-person accounts from young people aged 11 to 25. Topics include:
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Starting secondary school with anxiety
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Coping with change, loss, or friendship issues
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Getting support for the first time
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Navigating identity, belonging, and mental health
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Feeling misunderstood—and finding someone who finally listened
“I thought it was just me who felt like this. Then someone else said they’d felt the same—and everything changed.”
— Anonymous, age 15
🧡 Family Perspectives
Stories from parents, carers, siblings and guardians—often the quiet champions working behind the scenes.
You might read about:
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Supporting a child through assessment or diagnosis
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Finding ways to communicate without pressure
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Managing family dynamics when one member is struggling
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What they wish professionals understood
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The strength (and strain) of caring for someone you love
These stories offer comfort and solidarity, especially for those feeling overwhelmed or unseen.
🧑🏫 Voices from Supporters
Teachers, learning mentors, youth workers and healthcare professionals reflect on their roles in supporting mental health:
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Building trust with a quiet student
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Learning what not to say—and what helped instead
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Balancing care with their own wellbeing
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Watching a young person grow in confidence over time
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Advocating for change within schools or systems
These stories remind us that small actions—a conversation, a second chance, a moment of patience—can make lasting impact.
Want to Share Your Story?
We welcome stories of all kinds. You don’t have to be a confident writer or have a ‘perfect’ ending. All we ask is that it’s your voice, told in your way.
You can:
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Write something on your own
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Work with us to shape your words
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Share something creative (e.g. a poem, comic, photo journal)
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Record an audio message or video
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Stay anonymous if you prefer
We’ll support you through the process, and you’ll always have the final say on what is shared.
👉 [Submit your story here]
👉 [Get support with writing or recording]
Safeguarding & Support
We understand that sharing personal experiences can bring up difficult emotions. If you need support at any point—before, during, or after sharing your story—we’re here to help. We can signpost you to appropriate services, and you’re never expected to share anything you’re not comfortable with.
This page is not a crisis space. If you’re in urgent need of support, please reach out to a trusted adult or professional service.