Building a Community of Support: Healthcare and Local Schools

Young people’s mental health is under unprecedented pressure – working together, schools and local health services can create a network of real support

CREDIT: This article has been written based on information reported by The Boar

Recent research highlights a growing mental health crisis among young people. Student Minds, a mental health charity, reports that 57% of students self-reported experiencing a mental health issue, which can lead to falling grades and, in some cases, dropping out entirely. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) identifies key contributing factors: moving away from home, academic pressures, loss of familiar support networks and financial worries.

How GP Practices Can Support Young People

Build Bridges with Schools and Youth Groups
One of the most effective ways to help is to actively engage with schools, youth centres and community organisations. This could include providing resources such as leaflets, posters, or awareness campaign materials for students, or hosting workshops and drop-in sessions where young people can ask questions about accessing support. Your practice can act as a reliable point of contact and guide for schools navigating the mental health support landscape.

Respect and Empower Young Patients
Within the practice, ensure that young people are treated with respect and dignity. This might involve clearly explaining their rights regarding appointments, access to records and expected waiting times. Simple measures such as FAQs on the practice website, dedicated posters in waiting areas, or an accessible information sheet can make a real difference to someone who feels overlooked or intimidated.

Invest in Staff Training
Staff should understand the unique pressures faced by young people, particularly those from marginalised backgrounds such as students who are LGBTQIA+, from ethnic minority communities, or neurodiverse. Training can equip receptionists, nurses and administrative staff with the skills to respond sensitively and appropriately to a young person seeking help.

Support Early Intervention
Waiting lists for GP appointments and mental health services can be lengthy, sometimes stretching to two years. Early intervention is critical to prevent students’ mental health issues from affecting their learning and wellbeing. Practices can play a proactive role by liaising with schools to spot issues early, providing advice on local support pathways and prioritising referrals for urgent cases. By working alongside schools, practices help ensure young people receive support that could make a decisive difference in their education and overall wellbeing.

Supporting young patients early isn’t just about managing crises; it’s about being part of a broader community that serves young people and helps them flourish both academically and personally. By collaborating closely with schools and local services, GP practices can provide a network of care that prepares young people for the future, reduces long-term mental health challenges and ensures they feel supported, understood and connected within their community.