Social, Emotional & Mental Health (SEMH)
- 1 in 6 children aged 5-16 have a probable mental health disorder (NHS Digital)
- SEMH is the fastest growing area of SEN in England
- Children with SEMH difficulties are the most likely to be excluded from school
- Early intervention makes a significant difference to outcomes
What is Emotional & Mental Health?
SEMH is not about children being 'naughty' or 'badly behaved'. It's about children who are struggling with their emotions, mental health, or social development in ways that affect their learning and daily life.
These difficulties can show up in many different ways. Some children become very anxious or withdrawn. Others may have angry outbursts or find it impossible to sit still. What they have in common is that something inside is making life very hard for them.
SEMH difficulties can be caused by many things — trauma, bereavement, family difficulties, neurodevelopmental conditions like ADHD, or mental health conditions like anxiety or depression. Understanding the 'why' helps find the right support.
👀 What you might notice
- Refusing to come to school or becoming very distressed about attending
- Seeming very anxious, worrying excessively, or having panic attacks
- Becoming very quiet or withdrawn, not talking in certain situations
- Complaining of physical symptoms (tummy aches, headaches) without a medical cause
- Having intense emotional reactions that seem out of proportion
- Finding it very hard to control anger or frustration
- Struggling to follow rules or accept boundaries
- Finding it very difficult to concentrate or sit still (may indicate ADHD)
- Struggling to make or keep friends
- Getting into frequent conflicts with other children
- Finding it hard to trust adults or accept help
- Being very sensitive to perceived rejection or criticism
How schools can help
Structured support to help children understand and manage their feelings
Small, safe groups that focus on building emotional resilience and social skills
Trained staff who can provide regular one-to-one emotional support
A place to go when emotions feel overwhelming, without punishment
Written plans that help everyone understand and respond to the child's needs
Focusing on understanding and repairing rather than punishment
🏠 What you can do at home
- Stay calm during difficult moments — your child needs you to be their anchor
- Name emotions together: 'It looks like you're feeling really frustrated right now'
- Keep routines predictable and consistent — this builds a sense of safety
- Look for patterns: does your child struggle at certain times, after certain events?
- Celebrate effort and small wins, not just outcomes
- Look after yourself too — you can't pour from an empty cup
🤝 Organisations that can help
🔗 Related conditions
SEN types often overlap. Your child may have more than one area of need. Here are conditions commonly linked to Emotional & Mental Health:
Note: This guide is for general information only. Every child is unique, and SEN types often overlap. If you have concerns about your child, speak to your child's school SENCO and your GP. For legal advice on SEN rights, contactIPSEA (free).