Hi. I’m a young person who’s been struggling with my mental health. Maybe it’s anxiety, depression, ADHD, or something else that makes everyday life feel harder than it should. I know I’m not the only one. But there’s something I want to say that often goes unsaid:

I see how this affects you too.

I Notice More Than You Think

Even when you try to protect me from your stress, I can feel it. I see the way your face changes when I say I’m not okay. I hear the tension in your voice when you talk to teachers, doctors, or family members about me. I notice when you sigh more, sleep less, or seem distracted.

You might think I’m too young to understand, but I do. And sometimes, that makes me feel like I’m the cause of your pain.

I Don’t Want to Be a Burden

There are days when I feel like I’m too much. Too emotional. Too angry. Too withdrawn. I know you’re trying your best to help me, but I also see how tired you are. I hear you crying when you think I’m asleep. I see you cancel plans, miss work, or put your own needs aside for mine.

And even though I’m grateful, I also feel guilty. I wish I could just “be better” so you wouldn’t have to carry so much. But I’m not doing this on purpose. I’m trying—really, I am.

What Helps Me (and Might Help You Too)

Here are some things that make a big difference for me—and I think they help you too, even if you don’t always realize it.

1. When You Take Care of Yourself

When you go for a walk, take a nap, or spend time with your friends, I feel relieved. It shows me that you’re not losing yourself in my struggles. It also teaches me that self-care isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. When you’re calmer and more rested, I feel safer too.

2. When You Talk to Me Honestly

I don’t need you to pretend everything is fine. When you tell me, “I’m feeling overwhelmed too, but we’ll get through this together,” it makes me feel less alone. It reminds me that I’m not broken—I’m just human, like you.

Honesty builds trust. And when you’re real with me, I feel like I can be real with you too.

3. When You Ask for Help

I know you want to be strong for me, but you don’t have to do this alone. When you reach out to a therapist, a support group, or even a friend, it shows me that asking for help is brave—not weak. It also takes some pressure off me, because I don’t feel like I’m your only focus.

4. When You Celebrate the Little Wins

Sometimes, just getting out of bed is a big deal for me. When you notice those small victories—like when I go to school, talk about my feelings, or try something new—it makes me feel proud. It tells me that progress matters more than perfection.

And when you smile or say, “I’m proud of you,” it means everything.

I Love You for Showing Up

Even when I push you away, even when I don’t have the words to say it—I love you. I see how hard you’re trying. I know you’re doing your best, even when it feels like nothing is working.

You don’t have to fix everything. You just have to keep showing up. And I’ll keep trying too.

Support from NCNW: You’re Not Alone

If you or your child are struggling with mental health, Nightstop Communities Northwest (NCNW) is here to help. Based in Widnes and serving Halton, Warrington, and the wider Northwest, NCNW offers a compassionate, community-driven approach to mental health and wellbeing.

What NCNW Offers:

• Affordable Counselling for adults and children (ages 4+), both in-person and online
•  Emergency Accommodation for individuals aged 18+ facing homelessness or crisis
•  School and College-Based Mental Health Support for young people
•  1-to-1 Therapy with trained counsellors

Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or young person, NCNW believes in early intervention, prevention, and the power of community. You’re not alone and you don’t have to face this journey without support.

Please fill out our online referral form or contact us here to learn more or book a session:

Email: mhsupport@ncnw.co.uk

Phone: 0151 345 6454