Mental Health
At Mulberry Academy London Dock we talk about mental health as being something we all have, just like physical health. It affects how we think, feel, act and relate to others, and it can change day to day depending on life events and experiences.
Students explore what good mental wellbeing looks like, including being able to manage emotions, cope with change, build positive relationships and continue to grow and thrive. They are also introduced to the Five Ways to Wellbeing: Connect, Get Active, Take Notice, Learn and Give.
How parents and carers can support students’ mental health at home
- Talk openly about emotions and model that it’s okay to have good and bad days.
- Encourage small daily connections, such as family meals or check-ins.
- Support routines that include movement, rest and enjoyable activities.
- Praise effort, kindness and resilience rather than just results.
Useful support and information
In PSHE, students focus their learning on understanding more about stress, what it is, why we experience it, and how it affects our emotions, bodies and behaviour. They learn that some stress is normal, but ongoing or overwhelming stress can impact wellbeing if not managed.
Students explore common signs of stress (such as irritability, worry, headaches or withdrawal) and practise ways to cope, including active, calming and thinking strategies. A key skill that is taught is “taking notice”, encouraging students to recognise feelings, thoughts and what can (and can’t) be controlled.
How parents and carers can support students managing stress at home
- Help your child name how they’re feeling without judgement.
- Encourage healthy stress-relievers such as walking, exercise or creative activities.
- Support problem-solving by asking: “What can you control right now?”
- Keep routines predictable during busy or stressful periods.
Useful support and information
Students also learn how to challenge negative thinking, practise mindfulness, and support others with their mental health.
Students explore common “thinking traps” (such as catastrophising or mind-reading) and learn how to reframe unhelpful thoughts in kinder, more realistic ways. They are also introduced to mindfulness, focusing on being present, self-compassionate and curious rather than self-critical.
Students learn how to support a friend or family member, including how to start conversations, listen without judgement, encourage trusted adult support, and understand when it is important to share concerns for safety.
How parents and carers can support students to challenge negative thoughts and practise mindfulness at home
- Encourage self-kind language and challenge harsh self-criticism.
- Practise short mindfulness moments together (e.g. breathing, walking).
- Remind your child they don’t need to “fix” others—listening matters.
- Reinforce that telling a trusted adult is the right thing if someone may be at risk.
Useful support and information
