Determining whether a young person needs counselling or support requires genuine engagement and individualised assessment. Research shows that the most effective approach involves taking time to understand each young person as an individual, listening to their concerns, and observing how they are managing their current situation.
Evidence indicates that meaningful conversation is the foundation of identifying support needs. Healthcare providers and caring adults can recognise when additional support might be beneficial by engaging in proper dialogue with young people and their families. This process involves listening without judgement, asking open questions about their experiences, and observing changes in behaviour, mood, or functioning that might suggest they are struggling.
Guidelines recommend moving away from standardised approaches towards personalised care. When young people feel heard and understood, they are more likely to express their genuine concerns and needs. Signs that support might be helpful include persistent distress, changes in social relationships, academic difficulties, sleep or appetite changes, or expressed feelings of being overwhelmed.
The key is recognising that each young person's experience is unique. What works for one individual may not be appropriate for another. Professional assessment considers the whole person, their family context, their strengths and challenges, and their own views about what might help.
Supporting young people effectively begins with creating space for honest conversation and demonstrating genuine interest in understanding their perspective. This fundamental approach to healthcare ensures that any support offered is truly responsive to their individual needs.