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NSPCC in Gillingham raises awareness as part of children's mental health week

The NSPCC have been raising awareness over the rising cases of children suffering from mental health problems.

The charity, which runs a support centre in Gillingham, says it is dealing with a rising number of cases linked to bullying, domestic abuse and other issues.

Figures from the NSPCC shows an increase in mental health problems in children. Stock picture
Figures from the NSPCC shows an increase in mental health problems in children. Stock picture

One in 10 children between the ages of five and 19 suffer from a mental health condition across the UK.

Abigail Hannan, a practitioner at the Children's Service Centre in Gillingham said: "A lot of the problems can be to do with things such as school, bullying and the pressures that come with that.

"At the Gillingham service centre we do see a number of children that are experiencing things at home such as domestic abuse.

"We're not entirely sure whether it is on the rise just in our particular area but we are certainly seeing a number of difficulties.

"A lot of the children that we are seeing at the service centre are coming to us because of anger issues and self-esteem so we are really trying to tackle that."

NSPCC helpline information. Pic: NSPCC (22224177)
NSPCC helpline information. Pic: NSPCC (22224177)

The children's safety organisation has outlined signs to look out for which may show children are experiencing mental health problems.

These include feelings of withdrawal, increased levels of aggression and a loss of interest in things they are usually engaged with.

Abigail added: "We find that children don't often like talking about those kind of difficulties, they might be feeling embarrassed about sharing.

"A lot of the children that we see can be quite worried about talking but after a couple of sessions we do found they open up quite a lot."

The centre runs a number of services aimed to help children and teens deal with the problems they may be facing.

To find out more or if you are in need of help visit the NSPCC's website or call 0800 1111.

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