In our busy lives, finding time for ourselves can sometimes feel like an afterthought, yet checking in with our mental health is essential for everyone—children and adults alike. Recently, I had a conversation with an 11-year-old pupil during a check-in session about exactly this. He wasn’t sharing much, which is completely normal; after all, not every young person finds it easy to open up about their emotions. In this case, I shared a bit about my own experiences with managing stress and recognising when I need a mental “reset.” This opened up a discussion about the importance of understanding our own mental health needs.

For me, I’ve learnt that having regular quiet days is essential for keeping myself grounded. With a hectic schedule, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, and without these self-check-ins, I risk running on empty. I explained to the student how taking time to reset and recharge makes a world of difference, and I encouraged him to think about what might work for him. In the same way adults need personal time—whether to unwind in front of a favourite show or enjoy a quiet meal—children have their own ways of decompressing, even if those look different.

Children might not always know how to articulate what they need, especially in a world that often encourages them to be constantly active and social. While socialisation is important, young people sometimes need space to just be on their own. For some, this might mean unwinding in their room with a games console, while others may find comfort in a quiet hobby. What’s most important is to recognise that a “reset” looks different for everyone, and there’s no one right way to recharge.

Encouraging children to have these self-check-ins is a vital part of nurturing their emotional health. Parents can support this by allowing space for open conversations about mental well-being and encouraging kids to tune into what they feel they need, whether it’s some alone time or an activity that brings joy and calm. Through this understanding, we not only help children build emotional resilience but also model a healthy approach to managing life’s demands.

It’s especially important for adults to prioritise their own mental health check-ins. Just as we’re instructed to secure our own oxygen masks on an aeroplane before assisting others, taking care of our own well-being allows us to better support those around us. When adults neglect self-care, the impact often ripples outwards, making it harder to be fully present for children, family, and work responsibilities. Taking even small moments to recharge can have a big impact, reinforcing the importance of maintaining our own “oxygen supply” so we can be our best selves for those who depend on us.

Taking the time to recognise and respect our unique mental health needs is something we all benefit from. After all, the journey towards well-being is personal, and each step—big or small—brings us closer to a more balanced and fulfilling life.