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Hello Yellow Day: Mental Health Awareness at Salt College

Oct 9
3 min read

This Friday, Salt College is turning yellow. Hello Yellow is a campaign led by the charity YoungMinds that takes place around World Mental Health Day.


We’re inviting people to join in by wearing something yellow (even one of the yellow wristbands we have on-site) and remind young people that their mental health matters and they're not on their own.


Why Yellow? Yellow represents a bright, visible way to start a conversation that too many people still find hard to begin.



Why it matters

Growing up has always been a lot, and today's young people face complicated, intense emotions. They could be about exams, friendships, social media, changes at home, or any uncertainty about the future. They could be about something much more serious too.


We understand that feeling anxious, low, overwhelmed or stuck at some point can be a lonely experience, and want to make sure learners know we are open to have those difficult conversations with.


Mental health is not just about moments of crisis. Everyone has it, in the same way everyone has physical health, and it changes from day to day. Looking after it matters just as much when things are going well.


For students: you are not alone

If you're finding things tough right now, here are some things worth knowing:

  • Talking really does help. You don't need the perfect words. You don’t even have to talk about it at the start but try and be open. Answering “Are you alright?” with a “No, actually.” is enough to start a conversation.

  • Choose someone you trust. That could be a friend, a family member, a tutor or any member of staff at Salt College.

  • Small things count. Sleep, time outside, staying fit, staying in touch with people, taking breaks from screens. All of these small acts might make a difference.

  • Look out for each other. A check-in “Hey, how’re you?” message or an invitation to sit together can mean more than you realise.

If you ever feel it gets too much, or you're having thoughts of harming yourself, in any way, please do your best to catch yourself and tell someone straight away.


For parents and guardians: starting the conversation

You don't need to be an expert on mental health to support a young person you know. These quick tips might help:

  • Pick a relaxed moment. Many young people open up easier while walking, driving or doing something together, rather than a potentially intimidating, face-to-face "big talk".

  • Listen before fixing. Often, they just need to feel heard. Try "That sounds really hard" before offering solutions. Acknowledge how they feel.

  • Notice changes. If a young person is withdrawing from friends, significantly changing their sleep or appetite, happen to be significantly more or less irritated, or losing interest in things they usually enjoy. These can be signs that something's wrong.

  • Keep checking in. If they don't want to talk today, let them know the door is always open. Be an option who is available and try not to turn them away.

  • Look after yourself too. Being anybody’s shoulder to lean on can be hard. Be kind to yourself and give yourself the same space you’re making for a young person.



How to take part in Hello Yellow Day

We encourage everyone in our community to wear something yellow, whether it's a jumper, a scarf, socks or a badge. We have yellow wristbands available in the reception if people would like to take one for completely free.

Our Deputy Principal, Nicola Kelly, hosted a “guess the speech bubbles” competition where a learner won some money to spend at our very own Salt College Café. Lunch with us is often a community activity, a space for learners to relax, get things off their chest, and get ready for the afternoon.


Where to get support

If you or someone you know needs help, these services are available in the UK:


Please check the YoungMinds website for current opening times and details.

You can find Salt College’s Safeguarding contact information here.

 

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