As reported by This is the Coast, Scarborough is rolling out VR therapy and school-based support teams to address rising mental health challenges in young people, says Dr. Gill Kelly
In a bid to tackle the rising mental health challenges faced by children and young people, Scarborough is implementing a multi-faceted approach, according to Dr Gill Kelly, consultant in Public Health.
One of the key innovations being introduced is the use of virtual reality (VR) headsets. Dr Kelly explained that Sidewalk, a provider of well-being support to older children, is exploring the use of VR headsets that deliver talking therapies to young people.
Alongside the introduction of VR, two mental health support teams have been deployed in Scarborough schools, an initiative funded by NHS England. These teams are a vital part of the local mental health support system. They help to bridge the gap in mental health support available in schools, reflecting the increased need within the coastal region.
One child described how it helped him manage feelings of sadness when playing football, while another said that it made her feel like a marshmallow. The program focuses on educating children about their feelings and emotions, normalising the range of emotions, and showing them it is okay to feel sad. This approach aims to encourage children to understand their emotional responses, recognise a range of feelings as normal, and understand how to manage them.
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