End of Term, New Challenges
As another school year comes to a close, many children, young people, families, and professionals are enjoying a well-earned break. Summer can bring opportunities for rest, connection and fun—but for many, it can also bring uncertainty, isolation and increased vulnerability.
For those of us working in mental health, safeguarding and suicide prevention, the summer holidays are an important reminder that risk doesn’t take a holiday.
🎒 School May Be Out… But Support Needs Continue
Schools provide much more than education. For many children and young people, they offer:
💙 Trusted adults to talk to
🤝 Consistent routines and structure
🍽️ Access to meals and practical support
🛡️ A safe environment away from difficult home situations
👀 Opportunities for concerns to be noticed early
When schools close, these protective factors can temporarily disappear. For some young people, this can increase feelings of loneliness, anxiety or hopelessness, while safeguarding concerns may become less visible until the new term begins.
🧠 Mental Health Doesn’t Pause for the Holidays
The summer holidays can affect people differently. While many enjoy a break, others may face increased stress due to:
Increased social isolation
Family conflict or relationship difficulties
The ongoing cost of living pressures, making it harder for families to afford childcare, activities, food or holidays
Anxiety about exam results or starting a new school, college or university
Reduced access to support services
Changes in routine that impact existing mental health conditions
For many families, the six-week break can be one of the most financially challenging times of the year. With free school meals temporarily unavailable, childcare costs rising, and the pressure to keep children entertained, financial worries can significantly affect mental wellbeing. These pressures can heighten stress, increase feelings of hopelessness, and place additional strain on family relationships.
It’s also important to remember that adults working in education, healthcare and safeguarding may be experiencing many of the same challenges. Alongside the emotional demands of supporting others, the continued cost of living pressures can contribute to stress, burnout and compassion fatigue.
Taking time to prioritise your own wellbeing isn’t selfish—it’s essential.
🚨 Staying Suicide Aware
Although there is no single “high-risk season” for suicide, periods of transition and reduced support can increase vulnerability for some individuals.
This summer, consider:
✅ Reviewing any existing safety plans before schools close.
✅ Ensuring children, young people and vulnerable adults know where they can access help during the holidays.
✅ Checking in with colleagues who may also be feeling emotionally drained after a demanding academic year.
✅ Encouraging conversations about mental health before a crisis develops.
Small conversations really can make a life-changing difference.
📚 Invest in Learning
For organisations, the quieter summer period can provide an excellent opportunity to strengthen knowledge and confidence before September.
Suicide prevention training can help staff to:
- Recognise the warning signs of suicide
- Respond confidently to someone experiencing suicidal thoughts Understand effective signposting and referral pathways
- Build safer, more compassionate workplaces and communities
- Strengthen safeguarding practice across teams
Whether you work in education, healthcare, local authorities, charities or the voluntary sector, investing in training helps ensure your teams are prepared to support those who need it most.
Thank you for being part of a growing movement committed to compassion, inclusion, and suicide prevention.
To find out how to train with us, visit our training pages or contact us on training@mentalhealthlearning.co.uk to discuss your needs.
🌞 Finally…
Supporting others every day takes emotional energy.
This summer, give yourself permission to:
🌿 Take regular breaks.
🚶 Spend time outdoors where possible.
📱 Disconnect from work when you’re able.
❤️ Connect with family, friends and the people who help refill your own cup.
The work you do changes lives—but you deserve care and support too.
As classrooms empty and routines change, let’s remember that mental health and safeguarding remain everyone’s responsibility.
By staying connected, continuing conversations and investing in suicide prevention awareness, we can help ensure that no one feels alone over the summer.
From all of us, thank you for the compassion, dedication and commitment you show every day.
We wish you a safe, restorative and well-deserved summer break. 🌞💛
Thank you for the work you do—and for continuing to be part of a community that cares.
With warm wishes,
Alice and the Mental Health Learning Team 🧠