Health and wellbeing support for young people
Support and advice for your physical and mental health in Oxfordshire
Look after your health and wellbeing.
Taking care of your health and wellbeing helps you feel good, stay strong, and enjoy life. As you grow up, you'll start making more choices about your health.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
It’s normal to feel sad, worried or stressed sometimes. If these feelings last or make life harder, talk to someone and get help.
Local support in Oxfordshire
- CAMHS – Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services: NHS support for young people with emotional or mental health difficulties
- Oxfordshire Youth: Mental health support, youth groups and wellbeing workshops
- Oxfordshire Mind: Local mental health charity offering support groups and advice
- Childline: Free support for anyone under 19. Call 0800 1111 or chat online
- YoungMinds: Advice, guides and a crisis textline (Text YM to 85258)
- Therapy Comics: Comics that explain mental health and coping skills in a fun way
- Good Thinking: Tips for managing stress, bullying and growing up
- Watch this video: See how talking about your feelings can help
Physical health and medical care
GP and health services
Register with a GP (family doctor) if you haven't already. They can help with everyday health and refer you to specialists.
If you have a learning disability and are aged 14 or over, you can get a free annual health check at your GP.
Dental and sexual health
- Oxfordshire Community Dental Service: For people who can't use regular dentists.
- Oxfordshire Sexual Health Service: Confidential advice, contraception and STI testing.
Healthy habits
Food and nutrition
- eat a mix of fruits, vegetables, proteins and grains
- drink water regularly
- try simple cooking — even making a sandwich or salad is a great start
Exercise and activity
- move your body daily — walk, dance, swim or play sport
- Oxfordshire has inclusive sports sessions and leisure centres, and Parkrun weekly walk/run events
Sleep
- aim for 8 to 9 hours of sleep each night
- keep a regular bedtime and avoid screens before bed
Staying safe and avoiding harm
- say no to smoking, drugs or drinking too much alcohol
- learn basic first aid and keep a small health kit at home
- if you’re sexually active, use protection and get regular check-up
- C-Card Scheme: Free condoms for young people
Making your own health decisions
From age 16, you can make decisions about your own health care. Doctors should talk to you directly and explain things clearly.
You can ask questions like:
- “What is this medicine for?”
- “What are the side effects?”
You can also speak to a doctor privately. You can also ask for an advocate if you need help understanding or expressing your choices.
Useful links
- Your rights to make decisions
- Childline – Your rights
- PASS Scheme: Get a card to prove your age
Stay informed
- NHS website: Trusted health advice and information
- Council for Disabled Children: Health info, podcasts and youth voice projects