What you need to know – A playlist of video clips for young people who have a parent with a mental illness

This playlist on YouTube features 10 different key messages for kids and teens who have a parent with a mental illness. They are designed to be fun, short clips which serve as a reminder to young people.

1. You are not alone – there are other young people who have a parent with a mental illness.
2. You didn’t cause your parent’s illness – and it’s not up to you to make them better.
3. Mental illness is just like a physical illness – anyone can have one!
4. It’s good to find out about your parent’s mental illness – and it’s ok to ask questions.
5. It’s ok to talk about how you feel. Don’t push it aside.
6. It’s good to have someone to talk with – make sure it’s someone you can trust.
7. You don’t have to be ashamed or embarrassed about mental illness.
8. It’s ok to have feelings – and to feel angry, frustrated or upset.
9. It’s good to take time out to do something you enjoy. It’s not selfish.
10. You have a right to feel safe – make a list of people you can call.