There’s nothing like hearing first-hand experience to capture the experiences of young people.

That is why Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust is working with young people who have used our services to make a series of short films about common mental health conditions and experiences.  

As this is Children’s Mental Health Week, it’s the ideal time to remind young people and their parents and carers that they can access this valuable source of information and inspiration on YouTube. 

Each of the 11 videos in the Short films on Mental Health series is 15-30 minutes.  The videos have already been viewed more than 120,000 times.  

They cover topics ranging from self-harm to depression and anxiety. One film includes advice on good mental health and wellbeing.

Dr Emma Fergusson, a consultant child and adolescent psychiatrist and associate director for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services in Oxfordshire says while most of the films will be useful for people of any age, many are particularly valuable for young people and those who care for them.  

She said: “School closures, exam uncertainty and being cut off from friends and social and sporting opportunities have undoubtedly affected the mental health and wellbeing of many of our children and young people.  

“It’s good that this year’s Children’s Mental Health Week has a positive, forward-looking theme of ‘growing together’ as we all begin to hopefully put the worst of the pandemic behind us.  

“It is important that young people, parents and carers talk about their wellbeing and look at the wide range of resources available to support them without clinical intervention.  Our series of films about mental health is a great place to start. By having real people – including young people – tell their stories, we can improve understanding and promote wellbeing.”