We are always seeking more ways to support our students’ mental health and wellbeing, and this term we have been able to introduce students at Wilson’s to Kooth. Kooth is an online mental wellbeing service developed by the NHS. It offers free, safe and anonymous support for 10-25 year olds on a range of issues, such as loneliness, bereavement, bullying, low mood and anxiety. In their Assemblies, year groups this term have heard directly from Cassim and Liv, who explained the service, telling their own stories along the way.
Cassim (pictured) moved from Uganda to Devon when he seven and, if asked to describe his childhood in one word, would say ‘alone’. He did not know where to turn when he felt he needed some help, and thought, as young men often do, that to speak up would make him appear weak. His fears were compounded by his family who dismissed his mental health worries and meant it took a long time for him to get help. He recognised that sometimes it’s easier to get help anonymously and from someone you don’t know, and this is where Kooth can help.
Liv reminded us that boys are often taught to not show emotion, whether directly or simply through societal expectations. However, understanding our emotions is the key to making sure we are happy and mentally fit. Often the only emotion that seems acceptable for boys and men to express is anger, which is unhealthy. Real strength comes from talking, asking for support, and learning to embrace how we feel.
It is as easy as making an account and no referrals are needed. Once you have an account, Kooth offers:
- online counselling with a real person, not a bot
- over 100,000 articles on a variety of topics, some written by other young people
- discussion boards
- access to a daily journal to track your feelings
Why not make an account, and then you know it is another method of support that will be there for you when you need it? Remember: it is free and completely anonymous! Simply go to kooth.com.
There is also a Kooth podcast available at pod.link/1547256556.