The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and the continued levels of restrictions in place across the UK, is an unprecedented situation that continues to affect our lives. It will be hard to gauge the full impact the situation is having on children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing until we emerge from it.
Pupils’ experiences of the pandemic will be very varied. Some, despite restrictions, will feel safe and mostly enjoy their time. For others, it will be challenging or even traumatic. Schools and teachers are used to supporting their pupils through challenges that they face in life – the current situation will amplify those situations many times over.
This guide aims to:
- outline the scale of the challenge that schools and young people are facing
- provide practical advice, activities and support
Articles in our guide

The challenge facing schools and pupils
An overview on navigating loss and bereavement, different home environments, inequalities, uncertainty, transition periods, and friendship and bullying.

Looking after your mental health as a teacher
If you are a teacher, here are things you can do to look after your own mental health.
With thanks to our colleagues for reviewing this guidance:
- Andy Langford - Clinical Director, Cruse Bereavement Care
- Medway Primary SENCO group
- Dover Primary Leaders' Group
- Terry Bennett & Darren Rubin, St John and St Paul Federation, Tower Hamlets
- Kevin Smart & Rebecca Smith. Leadership Advisors Medway LA
- Dr Robin Precey, Canterbury Christ Church University
- Teachers from our Peer Education Project schools

How to look after your mental health during the coronavirus outbreak
We have created a COVID-19 resources hub to give helpful tips and advice across all our nations that we hope will help you, your friends, and your family to look after your mental health.

Mental health A-Z
Explore our A to Z topics on mental health, where you can find more information on specific mental health problems and some of the things that can have an impact –good and bad – on our mental health.