Supporting the mental health of children and young people from Hong Kong
Guidance, training and further resources for supporting the mental health and wellbeing of children and young people from Hong Kong.
Guidance, training and further resources for supporting the mental health and wellbeing of children and young people from Hong Kong.
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Moving to a new life in London is a significant change. It is normal for a child or young person to experience negative thoughts and emotions, stress, or anxiety.
These feelings may relate to events in Hong Kong or concerns about the future. This guide outlines how you can support your child and where to find professional help in the UK.
Understanding your child's feelings
Every child expresses distress differently, and their difficulties may not always be visible. It is important to acknowledge and be understanding of your child’s feelings.
Some common signs of distress can include:
- Difficulties sleeping or having nightmares.
- Increased irritability or a persistently low mood.
- Regressing in certain behaviours, such as bed-wetting.
- New or increased separation anxiety.
- More frequent emotional outbursts.
Practical tips for support at home
- Provide structure and routine: Regular mealtimes and a consistent bedtime routine can create a sense of stability.
- Encourage familiar activities: Help them to continue with hobbies they enjoyed in Hong Kong, such as sports, music, or social groups.
- Talk openly: Your child may have questions about the future. Be as honest as you can, while reassuring them of their current safety.
- Support integration: Encourage attendance at a local school or college and participation in community activities.
- Seeking further help: Do not be afraid to support your child in asking for professional help.
Getting help with mental health in the UK
1. Who to talk to
You can start by talking to the following people and organisations who can help you find the right support:
- Your child’s school: Speak with a teacher, school counsellor, or school nurse. They can provide support within the school and help with referrals.
- Your GP (family doctor): They can listen to your concerns and refer your child to specialist services.
- A Hong Kong community organisation: These groups often have experience supporting families and can direct you to appropriate resources.
Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services
2. Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) is the main NHS service for children and young people with mental health difficulties.
CAMHS can help with things like anxiety, depression, eating problems, ADHD, self-harm, and more serious concerns. YoungMinds has a helpful article explaining the role of CAMHS and the services available.
How to be referred to CAMHS:
- By your GP.
- By your school nurse, teacher, or social worker (depending on your local area).
- In some places, you or your family can refer yourself directly.
Urgent help
3. Urgent and mental health crisis services
Some areas have special CAMHS crisis teams who can help if you are in immediate distress.
If you need urgent help:
- Call NHS 111 (select the mental health option) for urgent mental health support. Or use the online NHS111 tool.
- Go to A&E or call 999 if you are in immediate danger.
Helplines and charities who may also support:
- Childline: Call 0800 1111 for free, confidential support for under 19s.
- YoungMinds Textline: Text YM to 85258 for free 24/7 crisis support.
- Papyrus HOPE Line UK: Call 0800 068 4141, there to support young people thinking about suicide.
Other support
4. Other places for support
School and college services: Many schools have counsellors or pastoral care staff. Universities have student wellbeing services.
The Hub of Hope is the UK’s leading mental health support database. It is provided by national mental health charity, Chasing the Stigma, and brings local, national, peer, community, charity, private and NHS mental health support and services together in one place for the first time with a dedicated section for those under 25 years of age.
Community youth organisations may also offer drop-in counselling or support groups.
Hong Kong community organisations
5. Hong Kong-led charities and community organisations
You might want to contact the following organisations by and for people in Hong Kong living in London:
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Summary for parents and carers
- First step: Talk to your child’s school, your GP, or a trusted community organisation.
- Specialist NHS support: CAMHS is the main service for child and adolescent mental health. A referral is usually needed.
- Urgent help: For immediate concerns, use NHS 111 (Option 2), A&E, or call 999 in an emergency.
- Additional support: Charities, helplines, and school services can provide valuable extra help for your child.