YPMH: The Foundation for Young People's Mental Health

We're on a mission to make research and innovation work better for #youngpeoplesmentalhealth.

But we can't do it alone.

Improving mental health systems is a collective effort, and we all play a role in helping young people before they reach crisis point.

Get in touch today: contact@ypmh.org

March is #NationalNutritionMonth, and this month we're going to bring you everything you need to know about food and how it impacts our #mentalhealth.

From reducing chronic inflammation, to supporting a healthy gut microbiome - what we eat really does do more for us than we think!

#foodforthought

Did you know? 2026 is the #NationalYearofReading! 📖
Reading isn’t just enjoyable, it’s good for your mental health.

Whether you prefer stories, non-fiction, or audiobooks, reading is a simple way to support your wellbeing every day.

What have you been reading this month?

#mentalhealth

Workout videos vs going to the gym? Is one better for us than the other?

The answer: no!

When it comes to our #mentalhealth, any physical movement, even housework and gardening can help improve our mental wellbeing!

Which one do you prefer?

Would you eat bamboo?

New research shows bamboo may help: Regulate blood sugar, reduce inflammation, improve gut health and act as an antioxidant.

Packed with protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals, it might even support beneficial gut bacteria.

#foodforthought #youngpeoplesmentalhealth

A new review of 69 trials with nearly 5,000 adults found that light and moderate exercise can relieve #depression as effectively as antidepressants.

Research does note some limitations, but exercise is a powerful addition to mental health support!

Read the study: doi.org/10.1002/1465...

It’s Shrove Tuesday - aka Pancake Day! 🥞

While pancakes might feel like a treat, the right toppings can also support your brain and gut health.

Here are some of our top mentally healthy toppings to try!

#mentallyhealthfulfoods #foodforthought #pancakeday #youngpeoplesmentalhealth

Not sure what to do this Lent? 🌿 Add in a few things that support your #mentalwellbeing:

• Eat more mentally healthful foods
• Move daily
• Practice good sleep hygiene
• Try a new hobby

Even small changes can help you feel calmer and more resilient. Which will you try first? 💛

Show yourself some love this valentines day

Love is present all around, whether that's with a romantic partner, friends, family, or towards yourself.

Show yourself some love today and remember: always be kind to yourself💕

#mentalhealth

💜 We're thinking of anyone who finds Valentine's Day tough.

Sleep and mental health | How to improve your sleep | YPMH Discover how sleep affects mental health. Learn the science behind good sleep and explore practical, evidence-based tips to rest, recharge and build resilience.

Ever wondered how long it takes to adjust your sleep schedule? ⏰

It can take a few days up to 2–3 weeks, but creating a consistent routine and good sleep hygiene is key for mental wellbeing.

Learn more about sleep and mental health on our blog: www.ypmh.org/sleep-and-me...

#mentalhealth #YPMH

Want to get involved?
• Learn more about our work with schools and communities
• Collaborate with us on mental health initiatives
• Donate to help more young people access support

Visit: www.ypmh.org/get-involved/

#mentalhealthawareness #getinvolved

We’re proud to be working with Anglian Learning on their Belonging by Design project.

Together, we’re helping schools create environments where children feel safe, supported, and able to thrive. Because when children feel they belong, they can flourish.

#ChildrensMentalHealthWeek

It’s Children’s Mental Health Week! 💚

The 2026 theme is “This is My Place” – all about belonging. Community and connection are vital. Every child deserves a place where they feel valued, supported, and included.

#ChildrensMentalHealthWeek #Belonging

Want to stay in the YPMH loop? Sign up for our newsletter and get more of YPMH straight to your inbox! 📨

Including the latest news, mental health tips and more. It’s the easiest way to make sure you never miss a thing!

Sign up here: www.ypmh.org/keep-in-touc...

#YPMH #youngpeoplesmentalhealth

What is burnout?

Burnout is a state of physical, mental and emotional exhaustion, often caused by stress in the workplace.

While it's not a mental health condition, it can lead to mental health problems.

Find out how to recognise it, causes, and how to recover from it.

#mentalhealth #burnout

Cold days making you feel a bit disconnected? ❄️

Even a quick text, call, or coffee with a friend can:
• Boost feel-good chemicals like oxytocin
• Reduce stress
• Protect against anxiety and loneliness
Connections don’t need to be huge - tiny gestures go a long way ❤️

#mentalhealthtips #YPMH

Shorter, darker days can make staying active challenging, but movement is vital for physical and mental health. Regular activity:
• Improves mood and reduces anxiety via endorphin release
• Supports cognitive function and concentration
• Reduces stress and boosts energy

#mentalhealth

Ditch the doom scroll!

Feeling drained from endless scrolling or back-to-back tasks? Small, intentional breaks can reset your mind, reduce stress, and support both mental and physical health.

Short breaks help regulate the nervous system, lower cortisol and help improve attention.

#mentalhealth

Try these simple swaps for your #mentalwellbeing!

Making these small swaps can improve blood sugar, support your gut-brain connection, provide essential nutrients, and even reduce inflammation linked to low mood.

Even small swaps add up!

#foodforthought #mentalhealth #YPMH

Blue Monday? We don't know them!

#BlueMonday is widely recognised as “the most depressing day of the year”. But today on #BrewMonday, we want to encourage you to look after yourself and fill your own cup!

#mentalhealth #youngpeoplesmentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness

Our helpline is here for you this weekend 💙

Whether you’re overwhelmed or just need someone to talk to, we’re here to listen.

📱Call us, we'll listen - 08000 562 561

Today is #QuittersDay, when many people stop #DryJanuary®!

If you’re tempted to stop, here’s a reason to keep going (or swap to alcohol-free alternatives).

Even reducing your intake (not cutting it out completely) can help with sleep, anxiety, gut health, and concentration.

#mentalhealth #YPMH

Around 50% of #mentalhealth problems are established by age 14 and 75% by age 24

We’re working to support real-world solutions that improve mental health outcomes for young people.

Donate today to help accelerate real-world solutions for young people.

#GoldenGlobes #YoungPeoplesMentalHealth

Feeling guilty about not sticking to your resolutions? It’s normal. Reframing goals with kindness — small, achievable steps — makes them feel doable and protects your mental health.

Celebrate the wins, however small!

#goalsetting #mentalhealthmatters #youngpeoplesmentalhealth

Four mentally healthy activities for January

January is a good time to lean into slower, supportive habits. Gentle movement, creativity and social connection all help regulate mood and stress.

#mentalhealth #youngpeoplesmentalhealth #YPMH

Want to fundraise but not sure how?

We’ve got loads of creative ideas, printable bunting, and even virtual backgrounds for your team calls.

Tap the link in bio for all the resources!
#Fundraising #MentalHealthMatters #YPMH #YoungPeoplesMentalHealth

#DryJanuary has a surprising benefit: better gut health!

Alcohol disrupts the microbiome, increases inflammation and damages the gut lining.

Small ways to help your gut: Include fermented foods and 30+ plant types per week, reducing UPFs and increasing wholefoods

#mentalhealth #YPMH

There’s pressure to go full speed, but biology says winter slows us down. Short daylight shifts circadian rhythms - lower serotonin, higher melatonin - so we feel tired and less motivated.

Even hedgehogs are hibernating. It’s okay to go slow 🦔

#mentalhealth #resolutions

🎁 Still searching for the perfect present?🎁

Donate to YPMH in celebration or on behalf of a loved one to support young people's mental health this festive season.

To donate: www.ypmh.org/donate/