‘Who am I?’ is a new website created by and for young people about their experience of mental ill-health.

 

World Mental Health 2012 saw the launch of ‘Who am I?’ - a brand-new website created by and for young people about their experience of mental ill-health. The launch took place in the main hospital at Hollins Park and was introduced by some of our young service users from the Fairhaven unit.

The ground-breaking site invites young people to record and upload a YouTube video in which they hold up a series of hand-written cards that explain their personal journey. Alternatively they can view videos that other have uploaded under the headings of Depression, Eating Disorders, Self-Harm, Stress & Anxiety as well as Clinicians and Parents.

It is hoped that this welcoming online ‘community’ will help to challenge mental ill-health stigma and encourage visitors to confidently seek help.

“More than 30 young people from our Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHs) 5* Forum attended a workshop last October to explain what they did and did not want from the website,” says Joanne Waldron – our E-Communications Officer.

“We researched current social media trends and held a series of ongoing workshops with the young people – gradually developing what they tell us is an engaging, informative and supportive age-appropriate site with a really strong interactive element. Each of the young people in the group bravely recorded their own video which we hope will inspire others to do the same, emphasising our key message - ‘You are not alone’.”

The website is introduced by James, one our youngest Member Councillors. The videos are accompanied by links to sources of local and national support, which have been vetted and endorsed by the Trust’s CAMHs team.

Dr Steve Fuller, Consultant Clinical Psychologist, says: “We’ve been overwhelmed with the positive responses from the young people. We’ve worked hard to make sure that issues like safeguarding and best practice are fully considered while embracing this new, innovate way of working. We’re excited about what can be achieved by embracing social media.”

To view the new website or to upload your own video go to www.camhswhoami.co.uk