You’ve just graduated, armed with knowledge and ready to take on the professional world… right? That’s what I thought, too. But after applying for 100’s of jobs, I still hadn’t had any luck. I was in a never-ending cycle of “enter the same information, submit an application, sleep, repeat.” In the end, my weapon was my enthusiasm. My passion and energy finally landed me a job, but also held me back in a working environment. I faced challenges I’d never considered. I had lots of friends but struggled to navigate the social dynamic of an office. Projects didn’t always go to plan; and while my colleagues remained composed, I was crying in the office and, I’m embarrassed to admit, having few strops! My colleagues had developed skills like adaptability, stress management and interpersonal communication through years of experience, which I didn’t have (and it showed!) But even if I did, how could I show it? Enter the eQuoo Emotional Health Certificate of Achievement. By completing 15 chapters of eQuoo, you can learn valuable life skills, increase your mental resilience, and showcase your dedication to self-improvement. With this accomplishment, you're not just saying you have what it takes – you're proving it! We’ve spoken to employers who’ve confirmed that this certificate would make YOU a more appealing applicant. It indicates to future employers that you have the essential skills for your new job that aren't always taught in education - and not every applicant has. So keep playing - just a few more lessons and you’ll have something to show for your resilience!

In the bustling halls of schools, an invisible struggle often hinders students' ability to thrive: poor mental health. This silent adversary not only affects their wellbeing but also takes a toll on their school attendance and academic performance. The consequences are far-reaching, impacting the individual, the classroom dynamics, and the broader educational landscape. Absenteeism: A Telltale Sign Absenteeism in schools has long been attributed to various reasons, from physical illness to family emergencies. However, an increasingly prevalent cause is poor mental health. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues can shroud a student's daily life, making the simple act of attending school an overwhelming challenge. When mental health concerns go unaddressed, absenteeism tends to rise. Students might miss classes, fall behind on coursework, and disconnect from the educational environment. Consequently, this absenteeism becomes a significant barrier to academic success. The Effects of Missing School: Ripple Effect on Academic Performance Poor mental health not only affects attendance but also profoundly impacts academic performance. A student grappling with mental health issues may find it arduous to concentrate, retain information, or participate actively in class. Consequently, their grades might suffer, perpetuating a cycle of frustration and underachievement. Moreover, the classroom atmosphere is affected when students are absent or mentally disengaged. Discussions lack diverse perspectives, group projects falter, and the overall dynamics lose the enriching contributions of every individual. Nurturing Good Mental Health: A Key to Improved Attendance and Grades The correlation between good mental health and academic success cannot be overstated. A school environment that prioritises mental wellbeing can yield remarkable results. By fostering a culture of understanding, support, and resources for mental health, schools can effectively combat absenteeism and boost academic performance. Accessible Support Services: Schools should offer accessible counselling services, creating a safe space for students to discuss their mental health concerns. Professional guidance and support can help students navigate their challenges and feel more empowered to attend classes regularly. Promotion of Mental Health Awareness: Educating both students and staff about mental health is pivotal. Awareness initiatives, workshops, and discussions can de-stigmatise mental health issues and encourage a more empathetic and supportive environment. Integration of Mindfulness and Wellbeing Practices: Incorporating mindfulness exercises, stress-relief techniques, and wellbeing programmes into the curriculum can equip students with coping mechanisms to manage stress and anxiety, thus improving their attendance and focus. The Triumph of Good Mental Health Emphasising good mental health not only minimises absenteeism but also cultivates a conducive environment for academic growth. When students feel supported, understood, and mentally resilient, attendance rates tend to rise, and academic performance improves significantly. By nurturing positive mental health practices within the educational system, we pave the way for a generation of students who are not only academically successful but also equipped with the invaluable life skills needed to navigate the complexities of the modern world. Investing in mental well-being isn't just about attendance and grades; it's an investment in the holistic development and future success of our students. Want to find out more about psychology-based strategies to improve school attendance? Join our Free Webinar on the 7th February 2024 at 4p.m.

2023 was a landmark year for PsycApps as we continued our mission to provide accessible and engaging mental health support to students and adults. From exciting updates to our flagship app eQuoo to the launch of our new Resilience Training Programme and new research backing our clinical effectiveness, we made strides in elevating mental wellbeing. Read on for an overview of our year or download our full Annual Report below. Clinically Proven Effectiveness This year studies re-confirmed eQuoo meaningfully reduces anxiety and depression while building resilience. One saw young users' resilience soar over 3 months. Another showed how eQuoo worked to reduce university students' anxiety and depression. This year we also optimised eQuoo's assessments behind the scenes to measure personal growth and resilience building more accurately than ever. You can read the full clinical research behind our teen mental health app here. Revamping eQuoo for today's students After diving deep into what students need and what engages them earlier this year, we were delighted to reveal eQuoo’s sleek new style created just for them. From the re-vamped interface to enhanced accessibility, we’re confident the new eQuoo resonates with what matters most in young people’s lives today. eQuoo in the classroom & tackling the issues that matter Earlier this year we launched an intuitive web version allowing students to access eQuoo’s one-of-a-kind support wherever they need it – at home, in school, and everywhere in between! New stories have also been launched, inspired by the issues that are most relevant to students. Dealing with the consequences of risky behaviour, online and off, are tackled in Laid Bare and Street Smarts... and next year will see the launch of our new narrative around body dysmorphia. eQuoo gives schools the data they need Our new administrator portal lets schools privately monitor broader eQuoo usage trends, customise data views, and step in when red flags appear with students – all while keeping identities private. Introducing the new Resilience Training Programme What if resilience could be strengthened just like a muscle? That’s the bright idea behind our new Resilience Training Programme, launched earlier this year. Developed by our team of clinical psychologists and the bounce-back experts at the Resilience Research Centre, this online course makes building new psychological techniques easy. Through upbeat video lessons, lively interactive tools, and a simple step-by-step plan, The Resilience Training Programme covers everything from goal-setting and mindfulness when stressed, to mapping out personal support networks. It has everything you need to cultivate unstoppable resilience in educational settings and the workplace . What’s Next in 2024 After the milestones of 2023, we head into 2024 well-poised for another year of innovating and elevating our mental health offerings. We have a really exciting start to the year, which will see us partner with Activate Learning and NCG to launch the largest-ever clinical trial undertaken around student mental health. You can read the full Press Release here. More big news to come! Fill in the form below for our full Annual Report and insights into our plans for 2024

My initial encounter with the Annual Conference of Colleges (AoC) and the series of face-to-face meetings with College CEOs and leaders turned out to be transformative. My relationship with education and the education space has been a complex journey. Upon graduating from school, I earned the dubious distinction (met with joking comments, yet some disapproving glares from the teaching team) of being publicly announced as the student with the most unexcused absent hours among 92 students in my grade. Partly attributed to toxic bullying problems at our level and partly due to my boredom or failure to grasp the importance of the teachers' lessons, I found myself on an unconventional path. Fast forward a few years, and I have submitted my PhD Thesis, dedicating my life to supporting student mental health. It was a love-hate relationship for the longest time. Despite my reservations about the education system not being optimised for how our brains learn best—through narration and play—it is unquestionable for me to collaborate closely with secondary schools, colleges, and universities to support their students' mental health. This age group is prone to the manifestation of mental illness, and when teens and young adults struggle with mental health to the extent of dropping out, it has significant social and economic repercussions. I have committed my life to preventing this from happening. While I am aware of the rising numbers of mental illness cases and the dropping natural recovery rates over the last few years, experiencing the reality in my app analytics is a vastly different thing than engaging in conversations with CEOs, tutors, safeguarding staff, and headteachers in person. At the AoC, I engaged in back-to-back meetings with concerned yet determined educators. They hoped that eQuoo, our evidence-based mobile mental health game, could be the preventive intervention that kept their students healthy enough to attend classes, keep up with learning, and have a positive college experience free from the burden of mental illness. The experience surpassed my expectations. I'm genuinely touched by the individuals I've encountered—their unwavering commitment to offering educational opportunities to young people amidst the hurdles they face. Sean Mackney from PETROC shared with me that his team is developing a programme that begins in students' homes to help them overcome clinical anxiety, allowing them to pursue a degree, whether in person or through a hybrid model. Mike Hopkins from South City College Birmingham revealed that his students face economic disadvantages to the extent that he has now funded additional police officers to address the issues and violence outside the college, highlighting his determination to offer at-risk youth an opportunity to escape their circumstances through education. Liz Bromley from NCG has discovered funding in unexpected places, squeezing the last dime out of grants to enable refugees to integrate into society by contributing. She has partnered with us and Activate Learning (AL) to conduct the largest-scale clinical trial in history with college students. This gathering of data is what Gary Headland, AL’s CEO, says will help him shape policies for a human-centred education, changing lives. Sitting and conversing with these leaders—and many more—has humbled me and fostered my affection for a sector that now bears faces, hearts, and an abundance of determination. I now feel somewhat less like the founder of a lone startup striving to make a difference and more like a fighter who has joined hands with genuine agents of change. I am proud to be a part of a system much larger than myself.

The holiday festivities are ramping up, which for some can spark a sense of rising panic… If that sounds like you, then you’re not alone. Over 6.5 million people in the UK wrestle with social anxiety disorder. From college or university Christmas balls and parties, or office Christmas parties to crowded family gatherings, this time of year brings far more social events and obligations than usual. As the invitations come flooding in, you may feel overwhelmed with worry about getting through all these social occasions unscathed. However, by using the techniques and self-care strategies we discuss here, you can survive and even start to enjoy this socially-charged time of year. What does Social Anxiety Feel like? Imagine receiving a party invitation…as soon as you register it's another Christmas event, your mind may kick into overdrive thinking… "What if no one talks to me and I'm standing alone the whole time?" "What if I say something stupid or boring?" "What if I don't recognise anyone there and have to make small talk all night?" "What if I get panic attack symptoms in front of everyone?" Your breathing quickens. Your muscles get tense. You may even feel mild nausea. If these internal reactions sound familiar, you may be experiencing social anxiety on some level. The persistent fear that something humiliating or panicking could happen in social situations can hijack all logic. While avoiding every party may seem easier on your anxiety, isolation often makes the problem worse long-term. Pushing your comfort zone in small steps can build confidence. By arming yourself with healthy coping strategies, you can prevent anxiety from ruining your Christmas season. Helpful Tips for Managing Your Social Anxiety at Christmas Parties Planning is key. Before any event, consider these management tactics: Identify the most anxiety-provoking moments - arrivals, introductions, small talk. Then plan how to minimise them. Arrive late to skip the initial rush. Attend with a supportive friend who can facilitate conversations. Have an exit plan. Scout nearby calming spaces like bathrooms or balconies you can retreat to briefly for breathing breaks when needed. Set a time limit. Give yourself permission to only stay an hour or whatever feels right for you. Keep your hands occupied by holding something, like a drink, clothing or a fidget toy. These tactics can help you manage nervous energy discreetly. Focus conversations on the other person by asking questions rather than worrying about impressing anyone. Appoint a trusted friend you can text SOS messages to if needed. Most important of all, mentally rehearse things going well. Imagine what the event would look like if you feel more confident and enjoy seeing everyone. Focusing on this, rather than negative outcomes can make all the difference. Anxiety has a sneaky way of escalating simple scenarios into catastrophes in our minds. But the reality is most Christmas gatherings actually go fairly smoothly! People tend to be distracted by drinking, eating and catching up. They are unlikely to be judging you nearly as harshly as your inner critic assumes. The party season doesn't have to trigger anxiety if you strategically apply coping mechanisms and self-care strategies. While each social situation differs, having plans in place for common concerns can prevent you from feeling overwhelmed. Lean on your support system, prioritise your mental health, and congratulate every small win when confronting anxiety-inducing gatherings.

[London, 28th November 2023] Activate Learning, and NCG are partnering to address the rising demand for mental health support for young people in education in what is the largest clinical trial of its type. The college groups are joining forces with PsycApps Ltd. to conduct one of the largest college-based Randomised Controlled Trial (RCT) using cutting-edge mobile mental health app, eQuoo. eQuoo is a clinically-proven gamified app designed to improve student emotional health by tapping into skills that are shown to boost resilience and encourage personal growth, while reducing anxiety and depression. The RCT will have a sample size exceeding 8,000 students across both college groups, with the initiative focusing on the mental health issues that contribute to non-attendance, students dropping out of college, behavioural issues and academic struggles. The trial will launch early in the New Year and will last until summer 2025. Gary Headland, CEO of Activate Learning, highlighted the significance of this new research. He said: “We are seeing a significant demand in the FE sector to support more and more young people who are struggling with mental ill health. “We are continuing to build our data science capability and capacity, and this very large RCT should provide useful information, intelligence and knowledge of value to Activate Learning and NCG, and we will be pleased to share the findings with professional colleagues across the sector.” Elsbeth Tibbetts, Group Director of Student Experience and Safeguarding at Activate Learning, passionately highlighted the significance of this collaborative effort. She said: "The demand for mental health support among young adults is on the rise, with colleges still seeing the impact of the pandemic on our young people. “The mental health and wellbeing of our students is something we take incredibly seriously, and we see all the time how low mood and mental ill health can impact on their achievement. “I think this is a really bold approach we are taking with NCG by identifying and utilising eQuoo as an effective and engaging evidence-based tool, and I hope it’s one that will have enormous benefits for our students.” This move comes in the wake of the Association of Colleges (AoC) Mental Health Survey Report 2023, which revealed that more than 60% of colleges in the UK have seen an increase in demand for mental health support. The report also highlighted how demand continued to outstrip the supply of services and that greater access to community health services and in-college support was needed. Research by the Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH) has also found that 70% of young people aged 16 to 24 are using social media platforms as their primary source of information about mental health. This presents Activate Learning and NCG with an opportunity to create an intervention that can be both delivered at scale and via a medium that students prefer. Liz Bromley, CEO of NCG, said NG also recognised that the mental health of learners was vital to their success. She said: “At NCG we believe that the mental health and wellbeing of our students is crucial to their future success. Young people are facing real stress and mental pressures these days, which is why our NCG Guarantee ensures students across all of our colleges have access to the resources and initiatives that give them the tools they need to build mental resilience. “I am pleased to be able to collaborate with another forward-thinking college group to tackle such an important issue and offer thousands of young people across the country access to an innovative solution that we hope will bring them enormous benefits.” This was supported by Rachel Gibson, Assistant Director of Central Support Services at Newcastle College (part of NCG), who said: “The mental health and wellbeing of our students is a key priority for all NCG colleges, and we have seen first-hand the huge impact that mental wellbeing has on learning and progression. “All of our colleges have dedicated support teams, but this app will allow students to proactively manage their emotional wellbeing and hopefully develop the skills they need to protect their mental health. We are looking forward to seeing what benefits it can give learners across our group.” Silja Litvin, founder of eQuoo, said: “Our app, eQuoo, has been through multiple clinical trials, but we’re especially excited about our collaboration with Activate Learning and NCG because it allows us to explore the game in an educational setting with a young audience. “eQuoo is built to support adolescents and young adults, and the data from this trial will help us make the intervention at a preventative stage even more powerful.” About Activate Learning Activate Learning is a forward-thinking education group working across further and higher education, schools, apprenticeships and training. Group members: Activate Apprenticeships | Activate Business School | Activate Cycle Academy | Activate Rugby Academy | Banbury and Bicester College | Bracknell and Wokingham College | City of Oxford College and University Centre | Farnham College | Guildford College | Merrist Wood College and University Centre | Reading College and University Centre | South Central Institute of Technology (SCIoT) at Blackbird Leys Technology Campus and Reading College About NCG: NCG is one of the UK’s leading college groups, with a unique proposition that straddles the Further and Higher Education sectors. The group has a clear mission to enable social mobility and economic prosperity through exceptional education, delivered nationally through its seven colleges: Newcastle College Newcastle Sixth Form College Carlisle College West Lancashire College Kidderminster College Lewisham College Southwark College About PsycApps PsycApps Ltd is a leading innovator in mental health and wellbeing solutions. Established with a mission to improve the lives of individuals worldwide, we are dedicated to creating cutting-edge digital tools and resources that empower individuals to take control of their mental health and overall wellbeing. About eQuoo eQuoo is a cutting-edge gamified mobile mental health solution that blends psychoeducation and evidence-based techniques to promote emotional wellbeing and resilience. The app utilises interactive storytelling and engaging gameplay to empower users to develop essential emotional skills and improve their mental health. Committed to accessibility and effectiveness, the app strives to transform mental health support and provide a lifeline to young adults seeking personal growth and emotional wellness.

Many of us have experienced anxiety at some point - the racing heart, the feelings of dread, shaky legs and sweaty palms, that horrible feeling that makes you just want to escape - so when someone you care about struggles with anxiety, it’s natural to empathise and want to help ease their distress. While we can’t make anxiety disappear, there are thoughtful ways we can support and stand alongside those experiencing it. With some understanding and compassion, we can make their path a little smoother. Listen without judgement Creating a safe space starts with listening ears and an open heart. Resist the temptation to minimise their feelings or anxiety. Instead, let them share without fear of judgement or criticism. Even if their worries seem unreasonable to you, they are very real to those experiencing them. Seek to understand rather than fix. Offer reassurance Simple phrases like “I’m here for you” or “We’ll get through this together” go a long way. Reassurance helps replace anxious thoughts with comfort and support. But be careful not to offer hollow platitudes or false assurances. Your support means more when it’s realistic and caring. Encourage professional help While you can be a caring listener and great support, it can be really beneficial for those experiencing anxiety to seek professional help as well. A therapist can equip them with valuable coping skills and management strategies. Recommend speaking to their doctor about anxiety if they haven’t already. Educate yourself Learn about the symptoms of anxiety and common triggers. Understanding the causes better equips you to notice signs they may be struggling. But avoid trying to “diagnose” them or suggest their anxiety isn’t warranted. Your role isn’t to fix or downplay their feelings but to be an empathetic support as they work through it. Checking in Make it a point to regularly check in and let them know you’re available to talk if they need it. If it’s a friend, a quick text like “Thinking of you today” reminds them they have someone in their corner. But be careful not to pressure them to talk before they’re ready. Offer your open ear without demand or expectation. Help with practical tasks Everyday responsibilities can feel monumental when anxiety comes knocking. Offer to help lighten their load with tasks like planning, shopping or lifts to appointments. Reducing real-life stresses can help minimise anxiety triggers during difficult times. Encourage healthy habits Gentle encouragement of positive lifestyle habits can also help manage anxiety. Good self-care like healthy eating, exercise, quality sleep and saying no to unnecessary responsibilities all reinforce mental health. But be careful your suggestions don’t come across as prescriptive. Make them invitations, not expectations. Respect their boundaries Check in about what makes them most comfortable in social situations when anxiety flares up. Can they connect in smaller groups or one-on-one? Will it help if they are given advance notice before making plans? Respect their needs, even if it means changing regular routines. Navigating anxiety, your own or someone else’s, takes gentleness, learning and grace. But by walking alongside those struggling with patient love, you help lighten the load. Your open heart and listening ear can make a life-changing difference to someone weathering this storm.

As the UK has now waved goodbye to those precious extended daylight moments and the clocks wind back, a shadow falls upon many — the battle against Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) begins anew. SADly (pardon the pun), the winter blues, or seasonal affective disorder (SAD), affects around 2 million people in the UK. This seasonal foe grips a significant number of souls, unleashing a torrent of lethargy, melancholy, and an unsettling restlessness. Mornings become a Herculean task, an uphill climb from the warmth of the covers. And as the sun bids adieu by 5 pm, the urge to retreat under the comforting folds of blankets intensifies. Navigating through the darker days becomes an uphill trek. Every step of the routine feels like wading through molasses, and simply keeping pace seems an insurmountable challenge. Yet, within this bleakness, it's crucial not to cling to a routine like a lifeline, while every fiber of your being yearns for hibernations - it's time to adjust to a slower pace and give your body more rest. Here's a guide to help you combat SAD effectively: 1. Light Therapy Light therapy, or phototherapy, is a primary line of defence against SAD. Special lamps that emit artificial light mimic natural sunlight, stimulating the brain and mitigating the effects of reduced daylight exposure. Consider using these lamps in the morning to kickstart your day with a dose of simulated sunlight. 2. Maximise Natural Light Embrace natural light whenever possible. Position yourself near windows during the day, open curtains wide to let in sunlight, and take breaks outside to soak up as much daylight as you can. This can significantly uplift your mood and energy levels. 3. Stay Active Exercise plays a pivotal role in combating SAD. Engage in outdoor activities even during the shorter daylight hours—whether it's a brisk walk, a run, or outdoor sports. Physical activity boosts endorphin levels, improving mood and overall wellbeing. 4. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle Eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and maintaining regular sleep patterns are crucial in managing SAD. Avoid excessive consumption of caffeine or alcohol, as they can exacerbate symptoms. 5. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques Explore relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises. These practices can help alleviate stress and anxiety associated with SAD, promoting a calmer state of mind. 6. Social Engagement Maintaining social connections can act as a buffer against SAD. Plan activities with friends and loved ones, even if it’s virtually, to combat feelings of isolation and boost your mood. 7. Consider Professional Help If symptoms persist or significantly impact your daily life, consider seeking professional help. Therapists, counsellors, or psychiatrists can provide tailored strategies or recommend treatments like cognitive-behavioural therapy or medication. 8. Create a Supportive Environment Make your surroundings SAD-friendly. Consider decorating your space with bright colours, adding indoor plants for a touch of nature, or rearranging furniture to maximise natural light exposure. 9. Be Kind to Yourself Remember, it’s okay to feel affected by the change in seasons. Practice self-compassion, and don’t be too hard on yourself if you're not as productive or energetic as usual. Take things one step at a time. Final Thoughts As the clocks retreat and daylight dwindles, it's vital to guard oneself against Seasonal Affective Disorder's impending gloom. Implementing these strategies can aid in managing symptoms effectively, allowing you to embrace the changing seasons with resilience and a brighter outlook. Everyone’s experience with SAD differs, so it's essential to find what works best for you. Incorporating these techniques into your routine allows you to navigate the seasonal shift with greater ease and vitality. Stay strong, stay connected, and don’t let the darker days dim your inner light!

Oliver's Story Just a couple of months into starting secondary school, Oliver found himself amidst a whirlwind of bullying. A group of kids targeted him, hurling cutting remarks about his looks and behaviour. Despite the absence of any physical harm, the torment weighed heavily on Oliver, stirring up intense anxiety. Although he had enjoyed primary school, at secondary school this swiftly transformed into a dread at the thought of going in every morning. At the end of year 7, his parents managed to move Oliver to another school. This time, he was instantly taken in by a large group of friends. Things improved greatly; he met his new friends outside school regularly and felt a bit more confident about being in school. Fast forward to his GCSE year. Oliver still has a strong friend group and there has been no bullying at his new school, but for the past eighteen months, his attendance has become more and more patchy. He has fallen behind in his school work, which makes it harder when he’s in school. He only wants to stay at home, in a darkened room, on his Xbox and some weeks he won’t even reply to messages from his friends. This is a true story and tragically it mirrors countless others. The aftermath of bullying often lingers, haunting many children long after the torment ends. The Facts about Bullying in the UK In a survey from 2019, 22% of young people aged 12-20 said they had experienced bullying behaviour in the past 12 months. 45% had experienced it at least once a month, and 31% had experienced it at least once a week The same survey found that more than 60% of young people who have experienced bullying behaviour in the last 12-months said it had a moderate to extreme impact on their self-esteem (67%), confidence (66%), optimism and positivity (63%), and social life (64%). In the UK alone, over 16 000 young people aged 11–15 are estimated to be absent from state school with bullying as the main reason, and 78 000 are absent where bullying is one of the reasons given for absence. An Uncomfortable Truth Regrettably, no matter our efforts, the harsh reality looms: eradicating bullying entirely remains an uphill battle. Its manifestations are diverse — be it the direct intimidation of individuals, the relational bullying amidst friend circles, or the complex challenges posed by cyberbullying. Schools often serve as its breeding ground, but its insidious presence extends beyond, infiltrating offices and any gathering of people. Not only is bullying likely to continue but sadly, in addition to the varied immediate effects of childhood bullying, there are often long-term effects that can continue into adulthood. The emotional distress caused by bullying can often translate into ongoing physical symptoms, such as colds, headaches, stomach aches or sleeping problems. Victims are also more likely to develop anxiety or depression and are at significantly increased risk of self-harm or thinking about suicide in adolescence. More worrying still, they are also more likely to experience health, financial and social problems into adulthood. Help with Bullying If we can’t stop bullying completely, what can we do to help children and teens who are experiencing or have experienced bullying? What protective factors can we put in place to protect them from the impact of bullying and help prevent the long term negative effects? When bullying has become an issue, early school intervention with victims and bullies is a key factor in reducing impact, but alongside recognising and acting fast, there are other strategies schools and parents can adopt to support children and teens. In Oliver's case, if he had been supported to build key psychological skills that would have prevented the stress and anxiety from lingering, helped lessen the damage to his self-esteem and boosted his ability to not just build, but also trust his new relationships, would he be in a better place now? Studies have shown that improving children’s resilience can reduce the long-term effects of bullying. Being able to develop psychological skills, such as reduced impulsivity and stronger relationship and social skills can be protective factors. Even better, greater resilience in younger children has also been shown to make them less likely to become bullies or victims of bullying. Resilience builds the ability of young people to bounce back from challenges and setbacks, and by bouncing back they also experience increased confidence. It also helps reduce the likelihood of developing anxiety and depression later in life. Used alongside other school-led early intervention strategies, Resilience building can provide protection against the worst effects of bullying. How can we build resilience in our children and teens? The good news is that resilience can be learned. Although environmental factors help children become resilient, they can also develop resilience by learning and practising key psychological skills. Resilience can be built through simple techniques. Helping younger children to create strong structures and routines that support mental health and wellbeing, such as making time each day to be outdoors or taking part in enjoyable exercise, can create a foundation that will lead to greater resilience in later life. Equally, by helping children to build strong and trusting relationships and teaching them how to seek help when it’s needed, we give them the skills that will support them in the face of life’s challenges. It is exactly these skills that students learn through eQuoo. Our revolutionary, clinically-proven, story-telling app has been developed specifically to help young people to understand, learn and practise the key psychological skills that build a resilient mindset. Skills are taught through a variety of stories, providing examples of these skills in real life scenarios, testing understanding of them and then progressing to games to practise these new skills in a safe environment. And students can keep track of their progress by regularly checking their resilience score…seeing a boost to their baseline resilience in as little as 5 weeks. Contact our team to find out more about eQuoo and the power of resilience to help children and teens bounce back from life’s challenges.

In our latest webinar held this November, Silja Litvin, Clinical Psychologist and the visionary founder of eQuoo, illuminated the crucial topic of building mental resilience in the context of student wellbeing during exam season. The session was a holistic exploration aimed at understanding and addressing the challenges faced by students, particularly during mock exams. Delving into various psychological and emotional hurdles like anxiety, self-doubt, and fear of failure, Silja provided invaluable insights and actionable strategies to empower students in fostering a resilient mindset. Watch the webinar on-demand here: The webinar encapsulated a wealth of knowledge and actionable insights, empowering attendees with the tools and understanding needed to support students during challenging academic periods. By embracing these strategies, students can cultivate mental resilience, enabling them to thrive academically and personally. Stay tuned for future events as we continue to delve into vital topics aimed at enhancing student wellbeing and success. About PsycApps PsycApps Ltd is a leading innovator in mental health and wellbeing solutions. Established with a mission to improve the lives of individuals worldwide, we are dedicated to creating cutting-edge digital tools and resources that empower individuals to take control of their mental health and overall wellbeing. About eQuoo eQuoo is a cutting-edge gamified mobile mental health solution that blends psychoeducation and evidence-based techniques to promote emotional wellbeing and resilience. The app utilises interactive storytelling and engaging gameplay to empower users to develop essential emotional skills and improve their mental health. Committed to accessibility and effectiveness, the app strives to transform mental health support and provide a lifeline to young adults seeking personal growth and emotional wellness.

We hear about stress every single day, either from the people we know or in the media, but does the constant use of the term ‘stress’ mean we have stopped caring about what it really means for those affected? Are we now taking it less seriously than we should? For #stressawarenessday and for all those people who are currently affected by stress every day of their working lives, for those whose ‘Monday blues’ start with ‘Sunday scaries’ and go on into 'Wednesday woes', we wanted to shine a light on the topic of stress in the workplace and look at ways to provide effective stress management. Work-related stress is on the rise, it's directly responsible for absenteeism and reduced productivity and having a very direct impact on workplace wellbeing. But what causes stress? And how can we reduce the impact of stress in the workplace to improve employee wellbeing? Let’s look at just some of the key statistics around stress in the UK: Of those who feel that they experience frequent stress, 79% say it is work-related (Statistica) Workplace absences are at 10-year high with stress being the major cause of long-term sickness (Sky News). 13.7 million working days are lost each year in the UK because of work-related stress, anxiety and depression, costing £28.3 billion yearly (nice.org). 33% of employees report that high levels of stress impact productivity (Champion health) Looking at just one key sector, the most recent Teacher Wellbeing Index reported three-quarters of all school staff are stressed, with burnout and mental health issues on the rise. Of those experiencing stress in the UK, 16% had self-harmed and 32% said they had experienced suicidal thoughts and feelings (Mental Health Foundation and YouGov). It’s clear something needs to change, and understanding some of the causes of stress is a good place to start… The key to understanding stress is knowing the difference between being stressed and being busy We're all aware that workload is a key factor in causing stress, but is it the amount of work alone that is the main issue? 54% of employees agree that the perfect amount of ‘stress’ enables them to thrive (Champion health), so clearly ‘stress’ can have its benefits. That is to say, just being very busy isn’t the problem. We thrive on being busy and being productive under the right circumstances…but the ingredient that turns happily-busy into stress-and-overwhelm is…anxiety. When employees are worried about work, for any number of reasons, then being busy turns quickly into being stressed. How does being stressed affect employee wellbeing? To understand this, it’s helpful to look at the difference between someone being busy at work and someone being stressed. Let’s look at the example of Ann, an employee who has a heavy workload on the lead up to the Christmas break. The difference would look something like this… The main difference here is that when Ann is stressed, she is feeling anxious about the work she’s doing. There are many things that can cause this anxiety, from internal politics and unexpected challenges to change and issues with personal relationships. Whatever the cause of the anxiety, the outcome is a lack of confidence in her ability to cope. And this lack of confidence in turn leads to more anxiety. This cycle starts to look like this... How can you help employees feel more able to cope with the challenges that will inevitably come their way so they feel less of the anxiety that leads to overwhelm, lack of confidence and ultimately long–term stress? The importance of Resilience Building as a stress management technique Resilience works like a magic cloak. Once you put it on, you can protect yourself from the impact of life’s difficulties and challenges. By building resilience we cope better with everything that is thrown at us, and by coping better we bounce back faster, and grow in confidence with every challenge we overcome. For example, if we take the story of Ann, while she’s feeling the strain of her additional workload on the run up to Christmas, if she puts on her magic resilience cloak, she will still be really busy but able to face the additional demands on her time with greater confidence. The result would be a positive feedback loop like this... Resilience building works as the very best form of stress management. The good news is, that although resilience may not necessarily be something we’re born with, it is something we can learn. It is exactly these skills that our Resilience Training Programme is designed to instil in employees, to help create a more robust workforce that is able to bounce back and feel confident in the face of challenges….and is therefore less stressed. Our online course, designed by a team of psychologists and backed by the Resilience Research Centre, covers the six key areas of Resilience Building: Structures and Routines; Recognition of Talents; Mapping a Support Network; Help Seeking; Mindfulness and Self-Regulation and Goal Setting. Each section, supported by a detailed workbook, works to build the resilience that helps employees to cope with challenges, and creates a happier, healthier, more motivated and engaged workforce.

Anxiety is the leading mental health issue among teenagers, with an estimated 1 in 3 adolescents diagnosed with anxiety disorder (38% of females, 26.1% of males). While widespread treatments like Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) are effective, treatments can be difficult to access with long waitlists. The sad part is that many CBT skills learned during treatment are highly effective in preventing mental illness, something all young people should have access to. At eQuoo, we are committed to providing innovative solutions to tackle the growing mental health crisis in schools. Our approach is based on the principles of gamified psychology, utilising engaging and interactive tools to enhance emotional resilience, stress management, and interpersonal skills among students, as we believe the more young people have access to evidence-based tools like eQuoo, the more equipped they will be to deal with the mental and emotional blockers that keep them away from school. We specialise in teaching psychological skills to boost resilience (the most significant factor in preventing mental illness) and prevent mental health issues like anxiety before they become problematic. We also promote skills for developing strong and healthy relationships as young adults struggle to build and maintain meaningful relationships. Another area we focus on involves personal development and fostering belief in growth and achievement. Emilie, a sixth-form student at an all-girls secondary school in the outskirts of London, says one of her favourite skills in eQuoo is recognising and resisting Generalising Thoughts - a typical CBT exercise. If one girl in class didn’t like her, she recognises this is probably something to do with that girl and not her, and it doesn’t mean she’s generally unlikeable. Emilie says she struggles with anxiety from time to time, but it doesn’t stop her from going to class anymore out of fear of being ignored by her classmates. Mo implements his eQuoo knowledge around Emotional Bids - a concept founded by legendary relationship researcher Dr. John Gottmann - daily. This skill involves understanding and responding to relationship cues, bidding for attention and connection. He likes to say how eQuoo helped him get his first serious girlfriend, but his tutors at college say they watch him implement his skills with them as well, something that makes them hopeful. Key Components of Our Approach: Gamified Learning: We believe that learning should be engaging and fun. Our platform incorporates gamification techniques to make mental health education enjoyable and memorable for students. eQuoo covers over 52 psychological skills in its interactive story-telling app. Personalised Guidance: Every student is unique, and their mental health needs differ. eQuoo offers personalised guidance and interventions, ensuring students receive support tailored to their specific challenges. Accessibility: We understand the need for accessible mental health resources. Our platform is designed to be easily integrated into schools, making it accessible to many students through mobile or desktop. Teacher Training: We believe in equipping educators with the tools and knowledge necessary to effectively support their students' mental health. Our resilience training programmes empower teachers to recognise signs of distress and provide appropriate guidance. Data-Driven Insights: eQuoo's platform generates valuable data insights that schools and parents can use to track the mental health progress of students. This data-driven approach allows for early intervention and continuous improvement. The Way Forward: eQuoo is committed to working alongside educational institutions, parents, and students to enhance schools’ support for mental health and wellbeing. We believe implementing innovative and engaging solutions can prevent high absence levels from becoming the new norm. Together, we can create a brighter and more mentally resilient future for our students. We invite schools and educational stakeholders to explore eQuoo's possibilities for building a healthier and more supportive learning environment.