If a young person you know is persistently angry, depressed, withdrawn, tearful or acting completely out of character, they may need help from a professional.
Most young people will have times in their lives when things don't go smoothly and need some extra support. Sometimes a chat with an adult they already know, some empathy, and a bit of guidance as to how to manage new challenges, will be all that's required. Sometimes it's more sticky than that and problems don't resolve so easily.
As well as the usual developmental changes and life events that any child or young person could face, sight loss could complicate or add to difficulties. For instance:
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being or feeling different could create self-esteem issues, or make them subject to bullying
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independence may be harder to achieve or may be blocked by over anxious carers
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shock, anger or depression may occur in response to a diagnosis or a change in sight, or the realisation that they will not do some of the things their peers will do (such as learn to drive).
RNIB Emotional Support Service (ESS)
The Emotional Support service is for children and young people aged 11 to 18, who have sight loss. If a child or young person you know needs to speak with a professional, you can let them know about this telephone based service.
Emotional support resources and information
You can find details of useful resources and information for teachers, teaching assistants and other professionals working in education in relation to supporting the social and emotional needs of young people.
Resources for young people
RNIB Young people's web pages: Tough times and emotional support
Please encourage any young people you work with to visit our new Young People's section.
These web pages are specifically for blind and partially sighted young people which offer advice and guidance on all stages of their transition from choosing school subjects, planning for the future and study advice to starting college and university or moving into employment (including information around work experience, volunteering, interview skills and CV writing).
The young people's section has been co-designed and reviewed by young people across the UK and includes information on leaving home, as well as tough times and emotional support, free time activities, technology and more. Young people have told us their stories and experiences of all aspects of transition, incorporating written, video and audio case studies.