What are the Mental Health Support Teams (MHSTs)?

The Mental Health Support Teams (MHSTs) in Somerset are a partnership between Young Somerset and Somerset CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services).

The MHST work in educational settings across the county, supporting children and young people aged  5-16 with their mental health and wellbeing. Our primary goal  is to ensure that children, young people and their families receive timely help when they need it. Additionally, we aim to build resilience by equipping children, young people and their families with tools and strategies to use now and in the future,  enabling young people to fully engage in their education.

We provide support for mild to moderate mental health concerns. Low Intensity-Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (LI-CBT) is most effective when mental health changes first begin to emerge.  Signs that a young person may be experiencing changes in their mental health include:

• Becoming more withdrawn or feel low
• Seeking reassurance more frequently
• Losing interest in activities they used to enjoy
• Excessive worrying
• Repeating certain activities or behaviours that are not helpful to them 

This list is not exhaustive.  For more information on potential signs of mental health issues in young people,  please refer to the NHS website.

The MHST is not a crisis service, and there is a waiting list to access support. If you have any further questions about our processes, please phone 01823 368481 or email mhstadmin@somersetft.nhs.uk. The phoneline and inbox are monitored between 9am and 5pm.

For  urgent concerns, please contact the following services:

• Mindline: A 24/7 phoneline offering support and advice to all ages. Call  01823 276 892 or 0800 138 1692
• Your local GP or NHS helpline (111)
• Samaritans: Call 116 123 In an emergency: Dial 999 or visit your local A&E department