Dr. Tanya Byron to present YoungMinds Annual Lecture

She will discuss how different media, including TV and the internet,can encourage children, young people and families to open up about mental health problems and seek help before problems reach crisis point.
 

Star of TV shows such as Little Angels, House of Tiny Tearaways and Am I Normal?, Dr Byron is also the author of The Byron Review: Safer Children in a Digital World, commissioned last year by the government.

Dr Tanya Byron said: “Growing up can be tough and there are times when all young people need understanding, support and advice. However, some may not have anyone they feel they can open up to or ask for help. The media – with all it’s many platforms – can provide safe harbours for those who feel isolated, confused and unhappy and give information, advice and signpost places of support. Via stories, articles, plays, films, TV programmes, internet sites and more, young people can feel reassured that they are not alone in their feelings and behaviour and that help is out there for them.”

Sarah Brennan, YoungMinds Chief Executive, said: “We are delighted Tanya will be leading this year’s debate.  The media is a powerful tool which can raise awareness and show that high-profile issues such as knife crime, bullying and self harm are frequently the symptoms of mental health problems. Young people in these situations need support and encouragement to seek professional help.”

Dr Tanya Byron will also be presenting the 2008 YoungMinds Book Award in a ceremony that follows the Annual Lecture. Relaunched this year, the award will be given to a book for readers of 12+ that helps young people cope with the challenges of growing up.

For immediate release: 15th October 2008 

Ends

Notes to editors

• The YoungMinds Annual Lecture and Book Award takes place at 6.30 pm on Monday 17 November at the Unicorn Theatre, London SE1. A limited number of press places are available: if you wish to attend please contact the YoungMinds press team as soon as possible.

• For further information on the book award, including this year’s shortlist and details of the judging panel, please visit www.youngminds.org.uk/about-ym/youngminds-book-award

• YoungMinds is the UK's leading children's mental health charity committed to improving the mental health and emotional well-being of children and young people by ensuring mental health is placed firmly on the public and political agenda. For further information visit www.youngminds.org.uk

• For more information contact Hannah Smith on 020 7336 1451 or ympress@youngminds.org.uk