BEYOND BB

4 steps to talking about Mental Health

Be strong and courageous!

The term ‘poor mental health’, has become commonplace in the world we live in.

For many young people in Northern Ireland though, it is more than a term; it is a daily battle.

Research has found that 1 in 8 young people here have a probable mental health illness (Mental health Champion, 2023) and recent surveys indicate that 29% of young people are struggling with their mental health (Made For More, 2025).

When we look at these stats, it can seem bleak. Sometimes, it seems like knowing how to help the young people in our care is more complicated than ever.

There is hope though!

While they often find it hard to talk about how they feel, as BB leaders, you have been placed in a position of proximity to these young people who are struggling. You are fighting in the war against poor mental health in this generation and you have been called by God to be “strong and courageous” (Joshua 1v8) as you do so. You can really make a difference in the lives of the lads in your company.

Here’s 4 ideas how:

1.Notice

Notice if your young people are displaying any changes in behaviour, mood, emotions, physical health and interactions with others, irritability, difficulty concentrating, low self esteem and fatigue all can be signs that something is maybe not ok. You will know your boys and if something is a bit off.

It is worth remembering, if a young person is displaying any of these signs or others, they may be ok, but it is better to ask anyway.

2.Talk to them!

Talk to the young person. It can seem scary, but it’s simple. Ask an open question like:

“I noticed that you have seemed a bit distracted, I wonder if something is going on?”

If you get no response, that is ok. Even if they just know that you are a safe person, that is a good start. If they do respond, actively listen to them.

3.Listen well

Listen to them well by:

• Eye contact (but not excessive).
• Nod when appropriate.
• Open body language.
• Do not listen just to answer, listen to show you care. A phrase like: “That sounds difficult” shows you empathise with them.
• Do not jump to offer advice. Instead, ask open questions to encourage conversation.

As a BB leader, you may talk with a young person and get nowhere, or it just feels really awkward. Do not fear the awkwardness. On the other side of awkwardness, can be real breakthrough.

4.Follow Up

Be consistent with the young person. Check in with them in the following weeks and months. In a world that can be so full of change, it is reassuring to have a source of consistency for a young person.

To close

As you practice being attentive to others, asking them good questions and listening well, you will establish yourself as a safe person to talk to.

This battle that young people are facing is not one they need to face alone. If you are willing to fight alongside them, they might just get the support they need to start winning.

Be strong and courageous!

Written by Chris Acheson, Workshop & Internship Manager at Made for More.