During puberty and early adulthood, young people often experience mood swings, strong emotions and changing perceptions about the world. Hormonal changes in young women and girls, especially during the onset of periods and body changes, can be intense. However, persistent low moods, extreme outbursts, thoughts of self-harm, or seeing or hearing things that are not there are not normal. Talk to your doctor about these feelings, or feelings that impact your relationship with food.
If you are experiencing persistent anxiety, very low mood for long periods, thoughts of self-harm, problems with eating, or feeling strong emotions that are making your life difficult, seek help from your doctor.
Support for young people
Young people aged between 16 and 17 can refer themselves to the Children and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) by calling Connection on 0800 652 0190 or visiting the CAMHS website.
Children under 16 will require a referral to the CAMHS team from a doctor or other health professional.
Further support for young people
Prevention of young suicide HOPELINE247 – Papyrus
Call 116 123 to talk to Samaritans, or email: jo@samaritans.org for a reply within 24 hours
Text “SHOUT” to 85258 to contact the Shout Crisis Text Line
Call 0800 585 858 to talk to Calm (if you’re 15 years old or over) or use CALM webchat, both available from 5pm to midnight every day
Call 0800 068 4141, text 07860 039967 or email pat@papyrus-uk.org to contact HOPELINE247, available 24 hours a day
Urgent mental health support
If your or someone else’s life is in danger, call 999 immediately.
If you are struggling now, or if you are worried about someone else, there are several places you can go to get support:
Call NHS Connection, Dorset’s 24/7 mental health helpline, on 0800 652 0190
- Call Samaritans on 116 123
- Text SHOUT to 85258
