Child & Adolescent Mental Health Services

There are different ways to get support. You don’t have to try everything at once.

You could:

• Talk to a parent, carer or another adult you trust.
• Speak to your GP about how you’ve been feeling.
• Ask your school about emotional wellbeing support or counselling.
• Explore the support services listed on this page.
• Ask a professional whether a CAMHS referral might be appropriate.

If speaking feels difficult, try writing down what’s happening or showing someone this webpage.

You could start by saying:

• “I haven’t been feeling like myself.”
• “Things feel harder than usual.”
• “I’m struggling, but I don’t know how to explain it.”
• “I’d like some help with my mental health.”

You don’t need to have all the answers before asking for help.

CAMHS stands for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services.

They support children and young people who are experiencing difficulties with their mental health or emotional wellbeing.

CAMHS is an umbrella name for a range of services that assess and treat young people with emotional, behavioural, or mental health difficulties.

You don’t need to see your GP to access CAMHS Services. CAMHS accept self-referrals either by the young individual themselves (depending on their age and abilities with completing the referral form) OR by the parent/ legal guardian.

• Please click here if you would like to complete a referral on behalf of the patient/young person.
• Please click here for the self-referral form to be completed  by the young person themselves (recommended for patients ages 16-17)

For more information on CAMHS, their services and how to refer, please click the following link:

Know Who To Turn To In Your Community 

Kooth is a completely anonymous service, that provides a safe and supportive space for those who seek support without fear of judgement.

Togetherall – gives you a safe, anonymous space to talk openly and connect with others who understand, 24/7

NHS Talking Therapies offer evidence-based treatments for common concerns like anxiety and depression, helping people regain balance and wellbeing.

Be Well Hubs delivered through South London Listens bring support into the heart of local communities. Run by community organisations across the region, these hubs offer friendly places to connect, activities to reduce isolation, and practical help with signposting. EMHIP’s Health and Wellbeing Hubs in local mosques and churches also provide informal support and wellbeing workshops to support culturally sensitive care.

Supporting a young person who is struggling can feel difficult, especially when you’re unsure what to do next.

You can help by:

• Listening calmly and taking their concerns seriously.
• Letting them explain things in their own words.
• Asking what they feel would help.
• Supporting them to contact their GP, school or another appropriate service.
• Seeking further advice if their difficulties worsen while waiting for support.
• Getting urgent help if you are concerned about their immediate safety.

You don’t have to manage everything on your own either.