10 positive outcomes from taking children’s mental health seriously

On 9 January, Munira Wilson, Liberal Democrat MP for Twickenham, presented her Ten Minute Rule Bill in Parliament to place a mental health practitioner in every primary and secondary state school – giving every pupil access to care and support from the moment they start needing it. 

Later that month, Munira urged the Education Minister to back her bill to put a qualified mental health practitioner in every primary and secondary school in England.

Children's mental health is a crucial aspect of their overall well-being, influencing their emotional, social, and cognitive development. In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the importance of addressing mental health issues in children. Here are 10 compelling reasons why we need to take children's mental health seriously.

1. Foundation for Lifelong Well-being: Mental health in childhood lays the foundation for lifelong emotional and psychological well-being. Positive mental health during the formative years contributes to the development of resilient and adaptable individuals.
2. Academic Success: Mental health directly impacts a child's ability to learn and succeed in school. Addressing mental health concerns helps create an environment conducive to learning and enhances cognitive functioning.
3. Social Skills Development: With good mental health children are more likely to develop strong social skills. Healthy interactions with peers and adults contribute to the building of meaningful relationships and support networks throughout their lives.
4. Prevention of Long-term Issues: Early intervention in mental health issues can prevent the development of more serious problems later in life. Addressing concerns promptly can reduce the risk of long-term emotional and behavioural issues.
5. Physical Health Connection: Mental and physical health are interconnected. Poor mental health in childhood can contribute to physical health problems, while promoting mental well-being positively influences overall health positively.
6. Reducing Stigma: Taking children's mental health seriously helps reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Open discussions and awareness campaigns promote a more supportive and understanding society.
7. Family Dynamics: Children's mental health significantly influences family dynamics. Addressing mental health concerns within the family context fosters a healthier family environment and improves the overall quality of family life.
8. Building Resilience: Teaching children coping mechanisms and resilience skills during challenging times contributes to their ability to navigate life's ups and downs. Resilient children are better equipped to face adversity and bounce back from setbacks.
9. Early Identification of Disorders: Taking children's mental health seriously allows for the early identification and treatment of mental health disorders. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes and prevent the escalation of problems.
10. Investing in the Future: Prioritising children's mental health is an investment in the future. Mentally healthy children are more likely to become productive, well-adjusted adults, positively contributing to their communities and society as a whole.

Unfortunately, this Conservative Government has too often viewed children and young people as a financial burden and a drain on resources. Munira told Ministers that this is “just wrong”, and called for greater spending on services to support our children. 

Harry Boparai, the Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Candidate for Spelthorne, strongly supports Munira's proposal.  He says,

"When Conservatives say that we cannot afford to invest in education I say we cannot afford not to. Money spent on education is an investment in our future. It actually saves money in the long run as well as producing a healthier & more compassionate society.

 “A mental health practitioner in every school would make support accessible to ALL pupils, giving them the tools they need to be resilient and thrive into adulthood.”

We are right to take children's mental health seriously as it is essential for fostering a generation of emotionally resilient, socially adept, and successful individuals. By recognizing and addressing mental health needs in childhood, we lay the groundwork for a healthier and more compassionate society.