How can I help?

Remember: at Outwood Academy Bydales, you will always have access to the following support network:

  • The School Nurse

  • A trusted teacher

  • VMG Tutor

  • Learning Manager

  • The Bridge

  • Teaching Assistants

  • Peer Mentors

  • Friends

If you, or someone you know is struggling with poor mental health, there are so many ways you can help them, and so many ways to get them help from others.

First, use the mnemonic ALGEE:

  • Assess and approach your friend - Tell them that you've noticed a change in their behaviour (you can be specific) and ask them if there is anything they would like to talk about. Remind them that you're not going to judge them and that you'll be there whenever they feel like talking.

  • Listen non-judgmentally: This is sometimes the hardest part. It is tough to listen to someone else's problems without reacting judgmentally or emotionally. Keep calm. Understand that whatever your friend is saying feels real for them and so you need to listen and let them know you've heard what they have said. Try not to interrupt or give them advice. Instead ask questions: 'How can I help?' 'What would you like to do now?'

  • Give reassurance : First of all, thank your friend for sharing with you. Now is the time to reassure them. if you're not sure how to, you can use some of the information from this site to help. Remind them that mental illness can get better and worse, but there is always help and support available to help you feel better - just like if you had a physical illness. Let them know you will help them where you can. Never tell someone to snap out of it, or that they're being silly, or that their feelings aren't valid. Listen, but don't judge.

  • Encourage them to get help from experts: there are so many routes to go down when it comes to getting help from a professional. Some people may choose to go to their doctor, some might choose talking therapies or seeing a counsellor. Encourage your friend (or yourself) to start off by talking to the school nurse, who can offer advice and guidance on what to do next.

  • Encourage them to find other support as well: this might mean talking to a teacher or family member, it might mean finding some apps to help them to improve their mental health. It could mean finding a group of people who will support them when they're having a hard time. For a list of places you can go in school, check out the left-hand side of this page.