Helping Young People Thrive: Self-Awareness, Growth & Mental Well-Being
Being a foster carer is about so much more than just providing a roof over a young person’s head—it’s about creating a space where they feel safe, supported, and encouraged to grow into confident, happy adults. A big part of that journey is looking after their mental well-being.
Many young people in care have been through difficult experiences that can affect their mental health. But with the right support, they can build resilience, self-awareness, and a strong sense of identity. Helping them understand their emotions, recognise their strengths, and develop healthy coping skills can make a huge difference.
Whether you’re a foster carer looking for ways to support a young person or a young person wanting to better understand yourself, you’re in the right place. Let’s work together to create a future where mental health is supported, valued, and openly talked about.
Practical Ways to Support a Young Person’s Mental Health
Self-awareness and personal growth are key to mental well-being. Here are 10 simple yet powerful ways to encourage young people to develop healthy habits and open up about their feelings:
1. Practice Self-Reflection
Encourage young people to take time each day to reflect on their thoughts, feelings, and actions. Journaling can be a great way to do this.
2. Set Personal Goals
Having goals—big or small—gives a sense of direction and purpose. Foster carers can help young people identify what they want to achieve and support them along the way. Try creating a vision board together!
3. Embrace Strengths
Recognizing and celebrating strengths builds confidence. If a young person isn’t sure what their strengths are, ask them what they enjoy or invite others to share what they see in them.
4. Learn from Mistakes
Mistakes aren’t failures—they’re opportunities to grow. Encouraging a positive mindset around learning from mistakes helps build resilience.
5. Stay Curious
Keeping an open mind and being willing to learn new things can lead to personal growth and exciting new experiences.
6. Practice Mindfulness
Simple mindfulness exercises, like deep breathing or meditation, can help reduce stress and improve focus. Here are some great apps to try:
Headspace – Meditation for health and happiness.
Smiling Mind – Free mindfulness activities designed for young people.
Calm – Techniques to help with stress and sleep.
Happify – Fun games and activities to boost happiness.
MindShift – A free app designed to help young people manage anxiety.
7. Build Healthy Relationships
Encouraging young people to surround themselves with supportive and positive people helps them feel valued and understood.
8. Take Care of Your Body
Physical and mental health go hand in hand. Eating well, exercising, and getting enough sleep all play a huge role in overall well-being.
9. Be Kind to Yourself
Self-compassion is key! Encourage young people to treat themselves with the same kindness they’d offer a friend.
10. Seek Help When Needed
There’s no shame in asking for help. Whether it’s talking to a trusted adult, a friend, or a mental health professional, support is always available.
Encouraging Growth & Well-Being
Supporting young people’s mental health means creating an environment where they feel safe to express themselves, reflect, and build resilience. As a foster carer, your patience, encouragement, and open conversations can make all the difference. By helping young people develop self-awareness and healthy coping strategies, you’re setting them up for a brighter, more confident future.
Every small step matters—whether it’s listening without judgment, encouraging self-reflection, or simply being there. Mental health is a journey, and with the right support, young people can learn to navigate life’s challenges and embrace their full potential.
You’re doing an incredible job—keep going! Your support truly makes a difference. 💙
Kate, our FCC Education Specialist, provides our foster carers with support and advice related to the educational development of the children they are caring for. Click to find out more about our Education Specialists and the support they provide for foster carers.
