THIS year’s International Day of Happiness took place last week, on the theme ‘Happier Together’.

The campaign reminds the public that lasting happiness and wellbeing comes from feeling connected to others and being part of something bigger.

At Childline, our counsellors speak to children and young people every day struggling with their mental health, thoughts, and feelings. The counselling sessions focus on a range of worries and concerns that children have, including struggling with low moods or feelings of unhappiness, and more than 14,000 sessions were delivered to children on this topic last year. This equates to nearly 40 counselling sessions by Childline per day.

Our counsellors know how vital it is for young people to seek support because prolonged mental health issues can have a long-term impact on their lives. To mark International Day of Happiness and with the support of Lidl GB, a new campaign has been launched to shine a light on this topic. Find Your Calm is encouraging children to seek help for mental health issues and reminds them that the service is here for them 24/7.

Unhappiness was the second highest sub concern seen by the service under the main concern of ‘mental health’. Nearly 40per cent of these counselling sessions were with young people aged between 12 and 15. Many of the young people were also concerned about issues such as loneliness, confidence, loss, and anxiety.

At the NSPCC, we understand that every young person is different and may need help in navigating the ups and downs in their lives. This is highlighted in a new film from the service, following four teenagers talking through their own coping methods. Expressing their feelings through writing, art or talking, making things more manageable, building a healthy routine, and trying something new are all ways that can help a child’s mental health.

Parents and carers wanting to support a young person can let them know they’re there for them. Try to remain patient and calm, even if their behaviour is upsetting. Let them know it’s okay to be open and honest about their emotions and that they have a safe space to express how they’re feeling and what steps they can take next to feel more positive. It could also be helpful for young people to speak to their peers about their feelings and experiences. Moderated message boards on the Childline website allow young people to speak to each other about concerns they may have. Childline is free, confidential, and open 24/7: Call 0800 1111 or visit childline.org.uk