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.

In a world marked by unprecedented challenges, the importance of resilience among young people cannot be overstated. Dr Phillip Jeffries, a dedicated researcher in the field of resilience, has been diligently exploring this crucial aspect of youth development and formed part of our panel on our recent webinar, ‘Strong Females for a Stronger Future’. Resilience, often hailed as the antidote to the myriad challenges young individuals face, has become a focal point in the quest for solutions. In this article, we delve into what was discussed during our webinar. The current landscape for young people, particularly regarding mental health, presents a concerning picture. Statistics compiled by the NHS reveal a troubling trend. An increasing number of young individuals are grappling with issues such as anxiety, depression, and general wellbeing. Life satisfaction ratings among this demographic are far from optimal. One alarming revelation from NHS data is that more young people aged 6 to 16, report a decline in their mental health rather than an improvement. This trend is especially pronounced in older individuals, painting a worrisome outlook for the future. Breaking down the data further, a study conducted at University College London highlights a gender divide. Young women, as they progress into years eight and nine, report more mental health concerns compared to their male counterparts. This period, often described as a pivotal time in their lives, is marked by intricate social dynamics and challenges. For young women, the challenges they face can be insidious, with friendships and relationships forming, twisting, or breaking. Year nine, in particular, is often cited as a challenging time, filled with rumours and backstabbing. The reasons behind these challenges are multifaceted. Several factors contribute to the difficulties young people encounter today. These include the rise of bullying and cyberbullying, which presents a unique challenge due to its inescapable nature. Young individuals grapple not only with interpersonal relationships but also with the demands of school as academic pressure intensifies. Additionally, societal influences, such as social media and pandemic-related stressors, compound these issues—the onslaught of unrealistic body image ideals and dangerous trends further burdens young minds. Resilience is commonly understood as the ability to bounce back from hardships. This image of resilience is akin to a stress ball, which, when squeezed, bounces back into shape. However, resilience encompasses more than just bouncing back; it also involves adapting to challenges and adversity. In light of these challenges, resilience has emerged as a beacon of hope. It is hailed as the solution to help young people bounce back from adversity. Resilience interventions are increasingly sought after by schools, aiming to equip students with the tools needed to overcome life's obstacles. One crucial message that Dr. Phillip Jeffries emphasised is that resilience is not an innate quality; it can be nurtured in individuals. Regardless of their innate disposition, young people can develop resilience through protective factors. These factors help them navigate challenges and emerge stronger and more adaptable. If you need an extra hand to improve your students' resilience simply by using their smartphone, tablet or laptop, we are here to help! Contact our team to discover the world of eQuoo, an interactive mental health game curated by psychologists designed to build their resilience and reduce anxiety and depression, all within the comfort of their digital devices.

In a world where discussions about human rights often revolve around topics like freedom of speech, education, and access to clean water, the concept of mental health as a universal human right might not always be at the forefront of our minds. However, as someone who has personally navigated the complexities of mental health, I firmly believe that mental wellbeing is an essential and inalienable right for all individuals. With Mental Health Awareness Day just around the corner on 10th October, I wanted to talk about my own experiences and how you too can navigate the complexities of mental health. The Hidden Struggles Mental health struggles are often concealed behind closed doors. Just like any other medical condition, individuals facing mental health challenges experience pain, fear, and uncertainty. For many, the battle begins internally, invisible to the outside world. My own journey with mental health issues began this way, with feelings of anxiety and depression that I kept hidden for fear of stigma and judgement. My mental health struggles started when I was at school, due to an incident of sexual assault at just 14. I kept my struggles hidden and this led to over 10 years of mental health relapses. I had never understood the root cause of my struggles and consequently needed to be proactive in talking openly about my experiences in order to accept the impact this incident had on my overall mental health. The Isolation and Stigma One of the most significant barriers to recognising mental health as a universal human right is the stigma that surrounds it. Society's judgemental attitudes and misconceptions can exacerbate the isolation already felt by those struggling. It took me years to open up about my mental health because I feared being labelled as weak or broken. Mental health conditions are real, and they should be treated with the same empathy and support as physical illnesses. When I was struggling with depression, anxiety and PTSD after the birth of my first son, it felt easier to tell my GP about my struggles because postpartum mental health concerns are understood. This however, was only part of my struggles and my therapist helped me unravel the stigma surrounding my ongoing battles from my childhood that were impacting my feelings surrounding motherhood. Access to Care Access to mental health care is another crucial aspect of recognising mental health as a human right. Just as everyone has the right to seek medical treatment for physical ailments, individuals should have equal access to mental health care services. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. In my own experience, finding affordable and accessible mental health care was a daunting challenge. The lack of resources and long wait times can be discouraging, leaving many to suffer in silence. NHS mental health services have long waiting lists, and for some, more intense therapy is needed. Due to my financial situation, I was able to afford a private therapist, and I know how lucky and privileged I am to be in that situation. However, not everybody has access to this and therefore more needs to be done. People are waiting and their mental health struggles are getting worse. The Impact on Daily Life Mental health is not an abstract concept; it directly impacts our daily lives. When my mental health deteriorated, it affected every aspect of my existence – from my relationships and work to my overall sense of self-worth. Recognising mental health as a universal human right means acknowledging that no one should have to endure this pain or carry this burden alone. Schools have the power to support children, and this should carry on into the workplace in future. I am very grateful for every company I have worked with to be grounded in practising what good wellbeing and mental health looks like, with support across the board. The Path to Empowerment Accepting mental health as a universal human right empowers individuals to seek help without shame. It encourages open conversations, reduces stigma, and normalises the idea that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. In my journey toward healing, acknowledging this right allowed me to take the crucial step of seeking professional help. I remember my therapist telling me I take my inhaler for my asthma every day to be able to breathe, so taking my sertraline every day to keep my mental health controlled is only doing the same thing for my brain that my inhaler does for my lungs. There is still stigma surrounding medication, and for mental health to be a universal human right, mindsets need to shift. A Call to Action As someone who has experienced the transformative power of mental health support, I believe it is our collective responsibility to advocate for mental health as a universal human right. We must: Raise Awareness: Start conversations about mental health in our communities and break the silence surrounding it. Share our stories to reduce stigma. Support Accessible Services: Advocate for better access to mental health care, including affordable therapy and counselling, particularly in underserved communities. Promote Education: Encourage mental health education in schools and workplaces to increase understanding and empathy. Advocate for Policy Change: Support policies that prioritise mental health care and work to eliminate discrimination against individuals with mental health conditions. Due to my own experiences of poor mental health, my career has navigated into me supporting and working with mental health and wellbeing platforms, alongside working alongside therapists. I am very privileged to be working with eQuoo who are helping students with their own mental health through their clinically-proven app. This is the app that I wished I had during my school experiences as I would have built upon my own resilience from a young age. Mental health is not a luxury or something reserved for a privileged few; it is a universal human right. My own lived experience has taught me that mental health struggles are real, and they can happen to anyone. It's time for society to recognise this right, reduce stigma, and ensure that everyone has access to the support they need to lead a healthy and fulfilling life. Mental health is not an option; it's a fundamental human right that we must all stand up for.

Secondary school can be both exciting and nerve-wracking, especially for girls who are forming new friendships, dealing with anxiety and learning more about their personalities. The desire to fit in and form genuine connections might be accompanied by feelings of unease. However, it's crucial to recognise that you have the power to forge secure friendships while staying true to your authentic self. This blog is dedicated to guiding girls with anxiety through the process of building meaningful connections, focusing on embracing authenticity, managing anxiety, and fostering supportive relationships. Tip 1: Embrace Your Authenticity Authenticity is your superpower, and it's the foundation of lasting friendships. Embrace your quirks, passions, and individuality. While anxiety might make you worry about how others perceive you, remember that people are drawn to genuine personalities. The friends you make when you're your authentic self will appreciate you for who you truly are. Tip 2: Shift Your Focus Anxiety often makes us hyper-focus on ourselves and how we're perceived by others. Challenge this by shifting your focus outward. Instead of worrying about how you're coming across, focus on being genuinely interested in others. Ask questions, listen attentively, and show curiosity about their lives. This not only helps in forming connections but also eases your own anxiety by redirecting your thoughts. Tip 3: Find Comfort in Shared Interests Shared interests provide an excellent foundation for friendships. Seek out clubs, activities, or groups that align with your passions. Engaging in activities you genuinely enjoy not only eases anxiety or worries that you may have, but also introduces you to like-minded individuals who share your interests. Conversations about shared passions flow naturally, making it easier to connect. Tip 4: Choose Supportive Friends Look for friends who are empathetic, patient, and understanding. These are the people who will stand by you during challenging times. Avoid individuals who make you feel pressured to be someone you're not or who dismiss your feelings. Secure friendships are built on mutual respect and acceptance, so surround yourself with friends who uplift and support you. Tip 5: Small Steps Matter Building friendships doesn't have to happen overnight. Take small steps to engage with others and gradually expand your comfort zone. Initiating conversations, attending social events, or even joining online communities related to your interests can help you practise social interactions in a manageable way. Navigating secondary school might present challenges, but it's also an opportunity for personal growth and forming secure friendships. Embracing your authentic self, focusing on shared interests, and surrounding yourself with supportive friends are key steps in this journey. You have the strength to create meaningful connections that contribute positively to your life. To support young girls with forming secure friendships at school, we are running a webinar on 13th September at 4.30pm where our presenters, Silja Litvin and Dr Philip Jefferies will discuss tips that you can utilise.

As the summer break comes to an end the prospect of returning to school, college or university can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Whilst September is a time to reunite with friends and catch up on your summer activities, for some of us the thought of entering a classroom again can make us feel anxious or stressed. Whether you’re starting a new educational environment, a new class, meeting new teachers and classmates or fearing the unknown of exams, back-to-school anxiety is a completely normal emotion to have. The good news is that in most cases, this is a temporary feeling and there are effective strategies you can use to cope with these emotions and make your transition smoother. In this blog, we’ll explore various tips you can implement to take charge of your back-to-school fears and start the year with confidence. Tip #1 | Acknowledge your feelings The first step in coping with any back-to-school worries you have is to recognise and accept the emotions you are feeling. It’s entirely normal to feel anxious or nervous about the upcoming school year and I’ll let you into a secret… most of your friends and fellow students will be feeling the same emotions too! By acknowledging your feelings, you’re opening the gates to give yourself permission to address and overcome them and take proactive steps towards managing them effectively. People who refuse to acknowledge their feelings often feel completely overwhelmed as their worries continue to grow and build up, eventually leaving them with a pile of emotions that they don’t know where to begin tackling. Tip #2 | Remember to communicate As I said, a lot of your peers are feeling the same nerves as you and also the adults around you also attended school once and more than likely remember feeling exactly how you feel right now. Talking about your concerns with parents, guardians, teachers or friends can be extremely helpful in your journey to overcome them. Sharing your worries might lead to others opening up about similar feelings and as a result, you can help each other. Sometimes, even just saying your fears out loud can bring you a sense of relief, discuss your academic and social concerns with anyone you trust and they may offer you valuable advice that you can take with you into the new academic year. Tip #3 | Create a routine A well-structured routine can ease your back-to-school anxiety by providing a sense of predictability and control over your day. Before your school year begins, gradually implement a consistent schedule starting with setting your alarm at a similar time every day and going to be at regular times. Having a routine can reduce your feelings of uncertainty and allow you to feel like you can better manage your time. Also allow yourself set time each evening for your hobbies or relaxation. Whilst your educational institution will dictate how you spend your hours each day, take control each evening for self-care, this will reduce your feelings of being overwhelmed as well as giving yourself something to look forward to once you return home. Tip #4 | Set yourself realistic goals Goal-setting is great for personal growth, but also setting yourself realistic and achievable goals will help you stay focused and give you a great sense of achievement once accomplished. When it comes to back-to-school anxiety, realistic goals will also help your confidence as you can see your progress to achieve objectives. You should be able to set yourself smaller goals to accomplish an overall objective, for example, set yourself a grade you believe you can realistically achieve by the end of the year. As you’re working to achieve that overall goal, set yourself mini targets to achieve such as so many marks in your coursework or homework which will give you a sense of pride once achieved as you can monitor your progress to hit that end goal. Tip #5 | Look for support if you need it If these don’t help and your back-to-school anxiety persists, significantly interfering with your daily life, consider seeking professional support. Whether you are attending a school, college or university, you will be able to find a counsellor or therapist available to provide you valuable personal support and coping strategies catered to you. Sometimes, talking to a professional can help you take a deep dive into your emotions in a judgement-free zone which will allow you to develop effective ways to manage them. Similarly to acknowledging your feelings, seeking support does not mean weakness it in fact demonstrates your commitment and courage to improve your mental wellbeing. At eQuoo, we have produced an app that is clinically-proven to develop your resilience so you are better prepared to tackle emotional situations such as the beginning a new academic year. Through playing our immersive game, you will learn crucial skills to navigate relationships, manage stress, boost your self-esteem, and enhance your mental wellbeing. Find out more about how eQuoo can benefit your journey to personal growth here. Back-to-school anxiety is a common experience for any student, by following these strategies you will begin to navigate this transitional period successfully and feeling more at ease. Remember that your new year presents you with a unique opportunity to grow and learn both academically and personally, and in a years time when you begin to feel common worries again, you will be more prepared to tackle them with confidence knowing you have overcome these emotions before. We wish you every luck and happiness on your journey into the new academic year.

GCSE results day is a significant milestone in every student's educational journey. It's a day filled with excitement, nerves, and anticipation as students, parents, and teachers eagerly await the outcome of years of hard work and dedication. To be ready for tomorrow, it's essential to be prepared emotionally and practically. In this guide, we will offer valuable advice for students, parents, and teachers to navigate GCSE results day with confidence and positivity. For students: Stay calm and positive: As the day draws in, it's natural to feel a mix of emotions. Remember that your worth is not solely determined by your grades. Stay positive and remind yourself that you've put in your best effort. There may be feelings of anxiety, which is a healthy and natural response in a high-pressure environment. Remember to take some deep breaths, and remember you have done the best you can. Support system: Reach out to friends, family, or your teachers who can provide emotional support before picking up your results, and after. Share your feelings with them and remember that they are there to celebrate your achievements, no matter the outcome. You might feel stressed tonight in the lead up to results, so make sure you are talking to your support system about your feelings. They are there to help. Consider next steps: Regardless of the results, have a rough idea of what your next steps might be. Whether it's continuing to A-levels, vocational courses, or apprenticeships, having a plan can ease post-results uncertainty and any anxiety you may have. Appeals and advice: If you're disappointed with your results, remember that there are options. You can discuss your options with teachers tomorrow, who can provide guidance on re-sits or appeals if necessary. For parents: Be supportive: On results day, your child might be experiencing a whirlwind of emotions. Offer a listening ear and a comforting presence, regardless of the outcome. Remember they have spent years studying for these exams and they will most likely be anxious and nervous. Manage expectations: Every student's journey is unique. Encourage your child that you know they tried their best, but also emphasise that their worth is not solely tied to their grades. Some of the most successful business people didn’t get good grades. Grades do not determine success in life. Explore options: If the results are not as expected, research alternative pathways such as vocational courses, apprenticeships, or re-sits. Discuss these options with your child and help them make informed decisions. A-levels don’t suit everyone, and it’s okay for you to guide your child into making the right decision for themselves. Celebrate the day: Whether the results are outstanding or not, acknowledge the hard work and effort your child put in during their GCSE studies. Celebrate their dedication. Treat them to a meal out after, or an activity. They might want to celebrate with their friends. Celebrate with them how they wish to. For teachers: Be prepared and supportive: On results day, be available to offer support to your students. Have information ready about post-results services, re-sits, and any available guidance. For students disappointed with their results, offer advice on potential next steps. Discuss their options and help them see the possibilities beyond their current situation. Celebrate achievements: Congratulate your students on their successes. Share in their joy and highlight the progress they've made throughout their studies. These results have been a long time coming, and they will appreciate you congratulating them as you were part of their journey. Emotional support: Some students might be struggling with their emotions on results day. Be understanding and provide a safe space for them to express their feelings. For students that may be anxious, remind them that this feeling won’t last. If you can see a distressed and upset student, check on whether they need a quiet space. Remember that GCSEs are just one part of a larger educational journey, and there are numerous pathways to success. Support, understanding, and planning are key to making the most out of this important day. We wish everyone the best of luck. When entering the new academic year, if you need an extra hand to improve your mental health simply by using your smartphone, tablet or laptop, we are here to help! Contact our team to discover the world of eQuoo, an interactive mental health game curated by psychologists designed to build your resilience and reduce anxiety and depression, all within the comfort of your digital device.

[London, 26th July 2023] - PsycApps, a leading provider of evidence-based gamified mobile mental health solutions, is thrilled to announce the release of groundbreaking results from a large-scale Randomised Controlled Trial (RCT) investigating the impact of their app, eQuoo, on resilience and mental health in a student population. This study represents a significant step forward in understanding the potential benefits of gamified interventions for mental health. The RCT, conducted by a team of international researchers, assessed the effects of eQuoo on a diverse student population of 180 Universities UK-wide over a period of several weeks. The results showcased the positive impact of the eQuoo app on resilience and mental health, providing a ray of hope for individuals facing various mental health challenges, but mainly on prevention, providing a barrier for mental illness in a vulnerable population. "We are thrilled with the trial results, as they reinforce our belief in the power of gamification and mobile technology to transform mental health outcomes," said Silja Litvin, CEO and Co-founder of eQuoo. "By leveraging engaging storytelling and evidence-based techniques, eQuoo empowers individuals to build resilience, manage stress, and develop essential emotional skills. We are proud to offer a solution that is both proven effective and accessible to a wide range of young adults." The trial involved 1,165 participants being randomly allocated to the use of eQuoo, another non-gamified mental health app, or a waitlist. Over the course of five weeks, compared to their starting point, students using eQuoo demonstrated significantly increased levels of resilience (as measured by the Rugged Resilience Measure), as well as lower levels of depression (measured by the Patient Health Questionnaire-8) and anxiety (Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7). They also demonstrated significantly better resilience and lower depression and anxiety scores compared to users of the other app and the waitlist. Book a demo Testimonials from young adults using the eQuoo app further illustrate the positive impact on mental health: "eQuoo has been a game-changer for me. It helped me develop coping strategies for stress and anxiety, and the gamified approach made it fun and engaging." "I struggled with confidence and self-esteem, but eQuoo helped me build resilience and discover my strengths. It's like having a personal coach in my pocket!" "eQuoo is more than just a game; it's a tool for personal growth and mental wellness. It helped me develop emotional intelligence and improve my overall mental health." The positive feedback and transformative experiences shared by participants in the trial align with a recent blog post by Paragon Skills, an apprenticeship training provider. The blog highlights the journey of an apprentice who played eQuoo for five weeks and its profound impact on their mental health and personal development. This milestone achievement would not have been possible without the support of Morningside, a leading global investment firm. Their funding has enabled eQuoo to conduct this groundbreaking research and continue innovating in the mobile mental health solutions field. eQuoo is committed to further expanding its research and reaching more individuals needing mental health support. With these remarkable trial results, they are well-positioned to continue making a positive difference in users' lives. For more information about eQuoo and its gamified mobile mental health app, please visit www.equoo-wellbeing.com. About eQuoo eQuoo is a pioneering provider of gamified mobile mental health solutions 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. With a commitment to accessibility and effectiveness, eQuoo aims to transform mental health support and provide a lifeline to individuals seeking personal growth and emotional wellness. Book a demo Media Contact: Shree Magdani Marketing Manager PsycApps Ltd For media inquiries, please contact marketing@psycapps.com Book a demo:

The long-awaited countdown to the summer break is finally over! This is now the perfect time to relax, rejuvenate and give yourself some much-needed TLC. Whether you’re heading off on a great adventure or taking time off to slow down and spend time with your home comforts, the summer holidays is an amazing opportunity to invest in yourself and improve your mental health. This guide will provide various ways to enhance your emotional and psychological wellbeing during your time off. Reconnect with what you love Your summer break provides you with an excellent opportunity to reconnect with the people you love and hobbies that bring you joy. Use this time to foster meaningful relationships with family and friends and spend quality time together engaging in activities that create lasting memories. Meaningful interactions and shared experiences can bring joy, laughter and appreciation, leading to increased happiness and reduced feelings of loneliness or isolation. Additionally, reigniting your passion for hobbies that may have taken a backseat during the busyness of everyday life can provide a therapeutic escape from daily stresses and responsibilities. Engaging in activities that bring you pleasure releases endorphins and promotes positive emotions which, in turn, can reduce the presence of anxiety and depression. Create a structure and routine While the holidays offer you a break from your usual daily routine, establishing a newfound summer routine can provide a sense of structure and help maintain a healthy mental balance. Create a flexible schedule that allows for relaxation, self-care and participating in activities you love whilst incorporating a small routine to regulate your mental health and give you a feeling of achievement each day. This could be as simple as setting your alarm to wake up at the same time each morning or putting aside time every week to complete the household jobs that you would usually push aside when you are working or studying. It’s essential to keep your routine varied in order to avoid burnout and nurture your mental health by feeling productive. Try and keep away from overworking without taking time to relax and also over-indulging in watching box sets for your full break as you may feel you have not accomplished anything by the time September comes around. Setting goals September may seem like a long way off, but your break will be over before you know it! Setting goals can provide a sense of purpose, direction and motivation. They can assist in maintaining positive mental health, help us stay focused and create a great sense of accomplishment when achieved. When setting your goals, reflect on what you want to achieve or experience during your break. It could be learning a new skill, improving fitness, or completing a creative project. Setting goals will also help you create a sense of structure and can be implemented into your daily routine. Achieving the goals you can set will boost your self-esteem, increase your motivation and enhance your overall mental wellbeing. Learn emotional self-regulation Implementing self-regulation techniques into your summer break can profoundly impact your overall wellbeing, making your time off more enjoyable and giving you life skills to take back to the classroom. As you engage in various activities during the summer, be aware of your emotions and begin to understand their influence on your thoughts and actions. For example, if you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or stressed, take intentional breaks to focus on your breathing or engage in mindfulness exercises to calm your mind and restore emotional balance. Applying self-regulation techniques will help regulate your emotions, manage stress and cultivate a positive mindset, creating a great foundation for your mental health beyond your summer break. You're all set to maintain your mental health this summer Your summer break presents you with a valuable opportunity to prioritise and nurture your mental health. Following these tips for maintaining a positive mindset during the summer can significantly improve your overall wellbeing, not only in the present but also allowing you to enter the new school year with improved mental health and feeling better equipped to handle any academic pressures. If you need an extra hand to improve your mental health simply by using your smartphone, tablet or laptop, we are here to help! Contact our team to discover the world of eQuoo, an interactive mental health game curated by psychologists designed to build your resilience and reduce anxiety and depression, all within the comfort of your digital device. We wish you a happy, relaxed and fulfilling summer break!

In recent years, the issue of poor mental health among students in England has reached alarming levels. As the number of students experiencing mental health disorders continues to rise, colleges must recognise their role and duty of care in addressing this growing concern. This whitepaper aims to shed light on the factors contributing to poor mental wellbeing among college students and explore its impact on their academic performance. Additionally, we will delve into the significance of building resilience in young people, as it plays a crucial role in their success post-college, with employers actively seeking resilient college leavers in their hiring process. Understanding the Mental Health Crisis: The first section of the whitepaper looks at the current state of mental health among college students in England. It examines the prevalence of mental health disorders, such as anxiety and depression, and the reasons behind their increasing occurrence. Factors such as academic pressure, low resilience, social isolation, and the transition to college are explored, highlighting their significant influence on students' mental wellbeing. The Impact of Mental Health on Academic Performance: Research has shown a strong correlation between mental health and academic performance. This section delves into how poor mental wellbeing can hinder students' educational journey. It discusses the effects of mental health disorders on concentration, motivation, and overall learning outcomes. By highlighting these effects, the whitepaper emphasises the importance of prioritizing mental health in the context of academic success. Building Resilience for Future Success: One of the key takeaways from this whitepaper is the significance of building resilience in college students. Employers actively seek resilient individuals in their hiring process, recognising the value of this trait in the modern workforce. The whitepaper explores various strategies colleges can adopt to help students develop resilience. It highlights the role of mentorship, extracurricular activities, and teaching coping mechanisms as essential components in fostering resilience.

In recent years, the importance of mental health and wellbeing support in schools and colleges has gained significant recognition. With NHS statistics showing that 1 in 9 children , aged 5-15, have a mental health disorder, Ofsted released a new education inspection framework. The framework aims to address mental health and wellbeing in educational institutions. Here are a few of the ways Ofsted and the Department for Education are urging schools to take action in prioritising mental health: Identifying gaps Ofsted's latest findings have shed light on critical areas in which schools must enhance their support for student mental health. The report underscores the cruciality of early intervention, comprehensive staff training, and seamless collaboration among schools, parents, and mental health services. The ultimate objective is to fortify students' resilience, empowering them to effectively navigate life's everyday pressures while proactively identifying those grappling with mental health challenges and swiftly recognising emerging issues with utmost accuracy. This holistic approach aims to create a nurturing environment that bolsters mental wellbeing and unlocks students' full potential. Ofsted's whole school approach to mental health The importance of adopting a whole-school approach to mental health and wellbeing is what authorities are suggesting schools implement (Fig.1). This approach involves creating a supportive culture, providing targeted support and appropriate referral to students in need, as well as also providing ongoing staff training. Inspectors also look for staff development efforts to support their own wellbeing as well as the wellbeing of their students. Fig. 1 Fostering resilience and emotional intelligence Ofsted has emphasised the importance of fostering resilience and emotional intelligence in students. Schools are incorporating wellbeing and mental health education into the curriculum, enabling students to develop coping mechanisms and emotional understanding. By providing these skills, schools have the opportunity to equip students with the tools they need to navigate challenges they may face in and outside of an educational setting. What does this mean for educational institutions? There is no longer room for mental health to be pushed aside; with Ofsted introducing these guidelines, school leadership must consciously promote positive mental health from students to school staff. But how can schools prove efforts when Ofsted visit? At eQuoo, our solution has been created by psychologists to improve mental wellbeing, including resilience, and personal growth, as well as reducing levels of depression and anxiety in learners. By adopting a solution like eQuoo, your students and staff will have access to clinically-proven mental health support and our analytics dashboard is available for you to show inspectors how each group's wellbeing journey is progressing. Supporting students eQuoo is designed to empower students by providing an engaging app that enhances their emotional wellbeing and fosters resilience through immersive real-life scenarios. Our research team have carefully crafted our gamified platform to educate students; equipping them with the necessary skills to navigate emotions and prevent mental health challenges effectively. Additionally, should students require extra support, our clinically proven solution facilitates appropriate signposting for further care. Our aim is to provide students with skills to control their mental health before they seek further help, which in turn will provide them with valuable life skills and reduce the amount of intervention your school will have to put in place. Actively providing a solution to improve resilience has to potential to have an immediate positive impact on attainment rates as students are equipped with the skills to thrive in an educational environment. Staff wellbeing Furthermore, to support the ever-increasing challenges faced by staff, our Resilience Training Programme has also been curated by our research team to support educators and staff by empowering them to develop their own resilience skills, whilst also learning additional psychological frameworks that can be used in everyday life. The programme will take professionals through topics such as the importance of structure and routine, mindfulness and regulation and recognition of talents. The desired outcome is that staff build their knowledge in resilience that not only improves their personal mental health but also gives them skills to pass on to their students. References: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/joint-inspections-focusing-on-childrens-mental-health https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1020249/Promoting_children_and_young_people_s_mental_health_and_wellbeing.pdf https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/education-inspection-framework#guidance-for-education-providers

We're thrilled to announce a significant update to eQuoo, bringing a refreshing change to how our stories unfold. Say goodbye to the fixed path that previously guided your journey through our app. Instead, we are empowering our players with the freedom to choose their own stories and determine their own path. This exciting development stems from valuable feedback gathered from our focus groups. By granting our players the freedom of choice, we have observed a remarkable increase in engagement. Users are now spending more extended periods of time immersed in the app, amplifying the clinical impact and enriching their life skills as they progress. This newfound freedom of play has proven to catalyse personal growth, inspiring our players to make the most of their eQuoo experience. More genres One major part of our update is the move away from a set path of going through the stories in an order pre-determined by us and instead, giving our players the freedom to choose the story they want to work through. Our focus groups show that this new freedom of play encourages our players to use the app for more extended periods of time to grow the clinical impact and improve their life skills along the way. Visually observe wellbeing We have changed how players can monitor their emotional wellbeing by giving them a more in-depth overview of our 5 Psychological Dimensions; Resilience, Depression, Anxiety, Interpersonal Relationships, and Personal Growth. Over time, users will be able to see their progress on what they are most interested in, and the results are represented visually using clinically validated scales. Just like you would track your steps on a smartwatch, our wellbeing monitor is a reliable source allowing you to follow your journey using visuals you are used to working within other areas of health. Web version We are so excited to announce that we now have a web version of eQuoo so that students can play alongside each other in a classroom setting or even discuss the game and the psychological skills in groups, which facilitates bonding and a deep understanding that peers most often share individual struggles. This feature has been heavily requested by our schools, who have suggested that having a desktop version will increase usability and that students will value sharing experiences of using the game with each other. With the launch of our desktop version, students can now have the choice to use the game in the privacy of their own mobile device or an educational group setting. New designs There have been updates in our UX and UI designs so that our game resonates more with our audience by providing a modern, sleek look. Our new look has made users more intrigued and engaged with the game and has encouraged them to spend more time working through the stories. The interface is built to be accessible, intuitive, and reflective of digital tools young people are using on a daily basis. ‘Real-life’ stories Stories based on realistic situations have now been added to eQuoo. This means that players can now choose whether to work through an escapism book or a more representational theme. Our real-life stories use true narratives that have happened in multiple schools which we have given a fictional twist to in-keep with our gamified app. We are now driven to continue to produce real-world tales which are data-driven so we can get a clear understanding of what our audience is consuming and what they are interested in. This could also include making our current books trilogies if users find them relatable. MIS integration We now have the ability to integrate with MIS systems which allows us to provide a holistic overview of analytics. In turn, eQuoo is able to work with schools and flag which psychological traits students are struggling to work through the most. A note from our CEO Silja Litvin “Our latest update has been so much fun to work on, and I feel immense pride in watching eQuoo grow into something so beneficial to our audience. We have really followed our player's lead and implemented new and current gamification methods, which is exhilarating to witness. I am excited to see how our players will resonate with this new build that they have co-shaped along with our development team.” Want to find out more about eQuoo for your students? Contact us:

If people pleasing makes others happy, how does it differ from being authentically kind? Whilst the thought behind people-pleasing is to put others first, this doesn’t mean it’s the kindest way to treat someone or to treat ourselves. People pleasing is often motivated by fear and a need to be accepted, whilst genuine kindness is motivated by valuing close relationships and treating others with mutual respect. Kindness and People Pleasing Kindness embraces compassion in the same way that it accepts compromise. Kind people may communicate their love language differently – but they are consistently genuine, authentic and supportive in their relationships with others. They do not feel ‘obliged’ to be kind. People pleasing, on the other hand, is devoid of choice. Kindness is no longer optional, but a lifestyle controlled by a false belief that our acts of kindness are the reason why people – well, stick around. For example, someone actively seeking external validation may spend all their free time helping their friends pack up their house, hoping to receive unconditional love or appreciation in return. Because people pleasers struggle with internal conflict, they do everything they can to feel safe in their external world – even if that means disregarding their own needs. It is an indirect and unconscious way of deceiving ourselves: we value other people’s time and energy more than our own. Signs of People Pleasing Behaviours People pleasers tend to share several similar characteristics. Below we list some of the most common signs of people pleasing: You say “yes”, even when you want to say “no” You have a hard time saying “no” You hold other people’s opinions of you in high regard You internalise strong and consistent feelings of shame and guilt Self-care is not an excuse to bail on others – that would be selfish You struggle with low-self esteem You are continuously looking for other people’s approval You’re always apologising – even if you’ve done nothing wrong You’d rather neglect or disappoint yourself than upset someone else Avoiding conflict is self-soothing You have low energy and are burdened by others You silence your own feelings, wants and needs You rarely share your personal opinions – so you agree with everyone else around you You lose parts of yourself People pleasers tend to internalise other people’s feelings – for example, they may believe that they can “read a room”, or the energy around them. Although their emotional intelligence and empathy for others is highly recognised, they are also very likely to have perfectionist qualities combined with low self-esteem and self-image. People pleasing may make others happy, but it also stops us from connecting with our authentic selves – and more often than not, it can leave us feeling anxious, drained and depressed. Why do we people Please? People pleasers feel responsible for other people’s happiness – they show up with (false) expectations of unconditional love and acceptance in return. Below are some reasons that might play a role in people pleasing behaviours: Fear of abandonment or rejection Fear of shame or guilt Fear of disappointing others Need for acceptance and belonging Need for love and continuous affection A strong belief that other people’s needs are more important than your own To avoid conflict Low self-esteem Early traumatic experiences Cultural expectations The motivation to support and help other people can be a selfless and automatic response – but people pleasing becomes problematic when we put aside what we want, need or feel. We prioritise other people’s feelings or needs over our own. No matter how old we get – family, friendships and companionships never get old. So, feeling loved and validated is unsurprisingly, really important for our emotional and mental health. But for some, feeling needed and appreciated may create an unrealistic sense of security, and people pleasing behaviours act like a safety blanket. But this blanket doesn’t always keep us safe for too long. It provides temporary relief because eventually, we start to struggle with our own internal conflicts, too. “I made plans with friends tonight, but my partner wants me to go to dinner with them instead – but what if they leave me because I don’t make enough time for them?” People pleasers struggle with intense feelings of shame, and guilt if they cannot or do not want to put others’ needs before their own. They also experience strong resentment towards others for feeling submissive, experiencing an imbalance of giving and receiving, or not receiving the same consideration or courtesy in return. So, is it possible to change these behaviours? Can we find the right balance between kindness and people pleasing? Absolutely! How to Overcome People Pleasing Behaviours If you’re wondering whether change is possible – if other people can still see you in a different light after you’ve been perceived a certain way for so long – we’re here to remind you that change is possible. Reclaiming power after people pleasing can happen when we start defining what we want, need and feel. Spend time with yourself – get to know parts of yourself that you’ve buried to keep other people’s love alive. Start discovering your likes and dislikes – find what makes you happy! Healing is a journey – it won’t happen in a day, but when you start to put yourself and your happiness first, you are more likely to experience higher confidence, self-esteem and self-worth. So, what is the fine line between kindness and people pleasing? The key to kindness is to be kind to yourself It is not neglecting yourself to make others happy, rather it means setting healthy boundaries and establishing a healthy balance between valuing yourself and nurturing your relationships. If you continue to struggle with setting a healthy boundary between kindness and people pleasing, eQuoo can teach you these 10 skills to help you build resilience and interpersonal skills, and boost emotional health and wellbeing. Rumination Assertiveness Training Boundaries Nurturing Relationships Worthiness Self-efficacy Emotion Detection Repeated Reassurance Seeking Doubting Thoughts Vulnerability/Intimacy With people pleasing, one person feels obligated to comply with another person’s needs in order to feel accepted in return. However, people pleasing is unhealthy because it expresses kindness to everyone but ourselves. But with the right skills and support, we can face the challenges of people pleasing and heal in a beneficial way.