Helping Children

Principles of Good Practice in Child Mental Health

By: Peter Fonagy, Peter Fuggle

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Paperback | 7 July 2026 | Edition Number 1

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240 Pages

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21.6 x 14.0 x 1.5

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Children and young peopleâs mental health is now recognized as one of societyâs most pressing challenges. Rates of distress and disorder have risen sharply while services struggle to keep pace. Long waiting lists and public concern highlight the growing gap between what children need and what professional systems can deliver. Yet there remains an expectation that therapy alone should provide the answer.

This book argues that the mental health needs of children cannot be met by specialist services in isolation. Instead, it calls for a new approach that brings together parents, teachers, peers, and communities alongside mental health professionals, each playing an equal part in supporting childrenâs wellbeing. Drawing on research, policy, and practice experience, the book identifies six principles of effective help: the active involvement of parents and carers; the importance of listening to childrenâs own wishes; creating environments of psychological safety; recognising that help can come from many sources; embedding support within everyday community life; and building a culture where caring for childrenâs mental health becomes everyoneâs shared responsibility.

Written by leading figures in child mental health, this book offers a powerful new framework for rethinking how society responds to young peopleâs distress. It speaks to professionals, educators, parents, and policymakers alike, showing how families, schools, and communities can work together to nurture resilience and belonging, reducing dependence on overstretched specialist services.

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