Dr Sophie Davies, Child Psychiatrist

I’m back at the RSM today and looking forward to this conference. When thinking about the digital world and young people I always think immediately of social media, but there are of course a wide range of different resources available. Offering support in a way that people may be more comfortable with or able to access. 🌱 The best analogy I heard equated the online world with the ancient discovery of fire. It’s so powerful and by itself neither good nor bad, it’s what we do with it that makes the impact. And it needs careful use and guidance. I was really impressed to hear of the MeeTwo app recently, I can’t wait to hear of more. 🌱

Thank you to everyone who came to our Mind Crafternoon! I was thrilled by the turnout. 🌟 Lots of friendship and warmth and so many generous donations. We’ll be adding up our total as soon as we’ve dusted off the glitter. 🎄

Anxiety presents itself in many different ways and sometimes it’s difficult to spot, but it sneaks in and gets more and more controlling. Recognising it is an important first step in standing up to it.

Action for happiness have some great resources. Here’s an advent calendar with a difference. I suspect the good feelings from this will last even longer than from those lovely little chocolates!!

I’m just catching up on last nights I’m a Celebrity, I’ve caught bits but not watched it properly before. Some of the challenges seem a bit like unnecessary torment. But I love how supportive and kind they’ve all been to each other. And my children are spotting good examples of bravery and perseverance. 🌱 I’m a bit worried about how the atmosphere will change with this new dynamic and entrance of Emperor Noel. 🌱 And Harry is fab. I’m struck with his good natured bemusement ...and description of love for his wife. But am so annoyed about their jigsaw comments. There’s enough judgment around about people’s different hobbies etc. We all like different things. 🌱 #guiltypleasures #kindnessisasuperpower #atleasttheyescapethehungerafteracoupleof weeks #findactivitiesyouenjoy #beyourself #isthisright?!
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There are some fantastic points in this article, especially around the anxiety children with autism may bottle up during a school day and the need for individualised understanding and approaches. 🌱

Eating Disorders are mean, vicious and tricky to deal with. I do hope that many of the increasing numbers are down to more people seeking help.
If you’re worried about your eating, or about someone else, speak to someone, perhaps a teacher, a family member or a trusted friend. If they don’t know how to help they can help you find someone who can.
BEAT is an eating disorders charity, Young Minds have lots of helpful information and ChildLine have lots of ways to access sup...port. (The links to all of these are on my website).
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The results from a survey looking at children and young people’s mental health were released today. One in eight young people had a mental disorder when assessed last year. 🌱 This is devastating. That is around 3 - 4 children in every school class. It’s difficult to compare the figures as the last survey was done using a different technique 14 years ago but there is an increase in those with a mental disorder, caused by an increase in those suffering from depression and anxi...ety. (Those with other difficulties, such as inattention had similar rates to before.) 🌱 There are many people suffering and there’s also so much work to do around prevention and improving well being. Fortunately these terrible numbers are reflected in rising concern around our young people’s mental health, but I hope that this concern is translated into real improved awareness, understanding and action. 🌱
I made these stop signs for a visit to a group of young people and love the chance to look at healthy habits and maintaining our emotional well-being. These were for discussing thoughts and stopping them before they can spiral or make you feel really bad. 🌱 #childrensmentalhealth #emotionalwellbeing #thoughtsfeelingsandbehaviours #thoughtsarejustthoughts mentalhealthawareness #halfofadultmentalillnessstartsinyoungpeo ple #challengesofadolescence
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“Pill-shaming”comments add to the general implication that mental illness is something that people should be able to sort out themselves if they tried harder.
I love the drawings in this video. And the concept of “boring self care” little things like remembering medication, or even picking up a prescription that aren’t glamorous or exciting but can make a big difference and need building into a routine.
Medication can play a really important part in someone’s recovery. And ...be life changing. Of course it needs to be prescribed carefully and appropriately, and I’ve not met a family yet who take it lightly.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/…/medication-for- mental-health-call-t…
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Some fab ideas here. From a range you can pick a few that help you or your child to have a personal list to pick from depending on the situation.🌱

A beautiful display of poppies from our local brownies, rainbows and beavers. 🌱 #weshallremember #remembranceday #poppies #remembranceday2018 #grateful

Remembering how lucky we are. Thank you to all those who made and make such sacrifices for us all. 🌺
I found this beautiful photo on Pinterest from #kernowrules 🌺... #remembrance #remembranceday #thankyou
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I may not have creative skills but luckily I have amazing friends who do. 💙 #loveleicester #lcfc #family #proud #khunvichai #thankyou #thankyouvichai #thankyouleicester #thankyouforfriendslikethese #hope #feelingsarefeelings #walkforvichai