Explaining mental illness to under 11s

This short video explains the brain, the mind and mental health problems in a way that is clear and accessible for young children.

Although this video is aimed at young children, mental health leads might find it useful to share with colleagues to help support their students’ understanding of mental illness. It could also be shared directly with students in an assembly or during class.

Using colourful and engaging animation, the video describes how mental health conditions may affect adults, causing them to act differently or struggle to concentrate.

It explains that children can support parents who struggle with their mental health but emphasises that they are not responsible for their wellbeing.

In the video, children are encouraged to share their concerns with the people they trust, prioritise activities that they enjoy doing and spend time with their friends.

Using this resource

This resource is designed for:

• use by mental health leads working with students aged 5 to 11
• use by staff working in primary schools.

Learning outcomes

This resource addresses the following learning outcomes:

• Use their knowledge to effectively communicate a positive values-based approach, and to promote openness and understanding to normalise mental health and its fluctuations throughout life.