LifeLine’s SW!TCH Minds programme providers mentoring, positive activities, holiday activities and residentials to young people on the edge of poor mental health. It helps young people build resilience, develop self-awareness and find better ways to cope, to prevent them tipping over the edge into poor mental health.
Angela joined her school midway through Year 10 after being bullied at her previous school. She was referred to LifeLine following repeated exclusions and emotional outbursts. Teachers said she would “blow up over small things” and she often challenged school rules, explaining that she was struggling with her mental health.
When Angela was first referred to LifeLine she was finding it hard to cope—her friendships were fragile, her relationship with her parents was strained, and she often felt overwhelmed. When she was upset or didn’t agree with something, she would walk out of class or speak back to staff. Sometimes, this led to detentions or exclusions. As a result, Angela would turn to self-harm.
The focus for Angela’s mentor from the beginning was to listen, support, and offer practical ways to manage emotions. With Angela, they explored healthier ways to release stress—writing things down, going for walks, crying when she needed to and speaking to someone she trusted. They would also speak regularly on the importance of having the right people around you—the company we keep, of course, plays a large role on our wellbeing.
Over time, Angela’s attendance improved, and she became more engaged in class. Her approach to school began to shift and her mood noticeably lifted—her WEMWBS score had risen to 51 (the national average) from a starting point of only 27. And her latest predicted grades showed she was achieving or exceeding all her targets.
She also shared that her relationship with both her parents had improved. They were communicating more openly and spending more time together. In response, her parents started to give her more freedom, trusting her to meet up with friends or invite them over.
Angela finished school with eight GCSEs.
Angela’s journey is a reminder that support, when offered at the right time, can help a young person find new ways to cope and rebuild their confidence. Through SW!TCH Minds, Angela discovered her own strength and a new way forward.
To be honest, I think it was you that helped me change the most and I’m really grateful for that, so thank you so much. You were always there for me when I was upset or having a down day. I also think I’ve matured a lot as well and it just made me see the world differently.
Angela
Angela made a real commitment to herself. She chose to engage, reflect and take small steps forward each week. Her story shows the power of mentoring when it’s built on trust. I’m proud of the young woman she is becoming.
Daniel Kika
Lead Youth Development Worker