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Let's Be Real - Mental Health for Young Minds

The Blog - page 3

More writing on young people's mental health, mental health literacy, neurodivergence and school culture.

Cover illustration for the article: How MHFA-Informed Peer Support Can Help LGBTQI+ Students Feel Safer In Schools
MHFAGiving SupportLGBTQI+International SchoolsNick Praulins · 16/06/2025

How MHFA-Informed Peer Support Can Help LGBTQI+ Students Feel Safer In Schools

When an LGBTQI+ student opens up to a peer, it can be a moment of deep courage and care. This article explores how schools can build safe, sustainable peer support programmes using Mental Health First Aid principles.

Read more: How MHFA-Informed Peer Support Can Help LGBTQI+ Students Feel Safer In Schools
Cover illustration for the article: Supporting LGBTQI+ Students Starts with Listening: MHFA Strategies for Schools
LGBTQI+Nick Praulins · 29/05/2025

Supporting LGBTQI+ Students Starts with Listening: MHFA Strategies for Schools

For many LGBTQI+ students, sharing their identity at school is an act of courage that may come with emotional risk. Grounded in the MHFA approach, this article explores how listening without judgement becomes a powerful act of inclusion.

Read more: Supporting LGBTQI+ Students Starts with Listening: MHFA Strategies for Schools
Cover illustration for the article: Feel-Good Wellness vs Real Mental Health Support: Know the Difference
International SchoolsTeacher LifeLeadershipNick Praulins · 26/05/2025

Feel-Good Wellness vs Real Mental Health Support: Know the Difference

Are your initiatives truly supporting staff wellbeing, or merely masking deeper issues? Learn the key differences between superficial feel-good strategies and effective, evidence-based mental health interventions.

Read more: Feel-Good Wellness vs Real Mental Health Support: Know the Difference
Cover illustration for the article: What to Say (and Not Say) to a Student Who's Having a Hard Time - A Teacher's Guide
Mental Health Support ServicesNick Praulins · 19/05/2025

What to Say (and Not Say) to a Student Who's Having a Hard Time - A Teacher's Guide

How do you start a conversation with a student who's not quite themselves, without making it awkward or overwhelming? This teacher-friendly guide breaks it down into five calm, actionable steps.

Read more: What to Say (and Not Say) to a Student Who's Having a Hard Time - A Teacher's Guide
Cover illustration for the article: 6 Things That Actually Improve Well-being in Schools (and One Thing That Completely Destroys It)
Nick Praulins · 12/05/2025

6 Things That Actually Improve Well-being in Schools (and One Thing That Completely Destroys It)

It's not another awareness week or a mindfulness colouring sheet. From peer-led programmes to trusted adults and tech-free spaces, this evidence-backed guide breaks down six strategies that truly support mental health in schools.

Read more: 6 Things That Actually Improve Well-being in Schools (and One Thing That Completely Destroys It)
Cover illustration for the article: Why School Leaders Need Youth Mental Health Response Training
Mental Health Support ServicesLeadershipInternational SchoolsNick Praulins · 03/05/2025

Why School Leaders Need Youth Mental Health Response Training

Why independently developed, MHFA-informed response training matters for school leaders, especially in international schools across Europe.

Read more: Why School Leaders Need Youth Mental Health Response Training
Cover illustration for the article: Navigating Youth Mental Health Support in Germany: A Guide for English-Speaking Families
Mental Health Support ServicesNick Praulins · 11/04/2025

Navigating Youth Mental Health Support in Germany: A Guide for English-Speaking Families

Finding youth mental health support in Germany can feel overwhelming, especially in English. This practical guide offers clear, accessible steps to help you find the right support, from crisis lines to long-term care.

Read more: Navigating Youth Mental Health Support in Germany: A Guide for English-Speaking Families
Cover illustration for the article: Mental Health First Aid: The Little Things Can Matter Most
International SchoolsGiving SupportNick Praulins · 10/04/2025

Mental Health First Aid: The Little Things Can Matter Most

When a quiet new student started slipping through the cracks, it wasn't a big intervention that made the difference - it was one small conversation. Learning to recognise and respond to early signs of distress can change everything.

Read more: Mental Health First Aid: The Little Things Can Matter Most