With the recent return to school for our younger people it reminded me of a very important fact.

Fifty per cent of all long-term mental health issues have begun by 14. Around 75 per cent of all long-term mental health conditions have begun by 24.

It is widely acknowledged early diagnosis and treatment can lead to better outcomes for people with mental health conditions.

Early intervention can help to prevent the condition from getting worse and can also help to reduce the risk of other problems, such as substance abuse, academic problems, and social isolation.

Early intervention can also help to reduce the severity of symptoms, which can improve a person's quality of life. For example, early treatment for depression can help to reduce the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviours.

With professional and other support, early intervention can help people to develop coping strategies, giving them the skills they need to manage their mental health condition, such as dealing with stress, managing their emotions, and building healthy relationships. In other words, it is perfectly possible to have a mental health diagnosis and thrive.

Knowing this can help to reduce the stigma associated with mental health conditions. It can help people to see mental health conditions are treatable and they are not alone - the whole point of this column.

So, what can we do, as parents, grandparents or however else we engage with young people in our lives?

As teenagers develop and cope with all the physical and other changes in their lives, it can be difficult to recognise the signs of normal adolescent development from something else. But it is a good idea to keep an eye out for things like changes in mood, changes in behaviour, such as withdrawal from friends and family, aggression, or self-harm.

Changes in school performance, sleep patterns and even appetite can also indicate a young person may be struggling. It’s also a good idea to keep an eye out for physical symptoms, such as headaches, stomach aches, or fatigue.

Getting young people to open up to us can be easier said than done, attempts to start a conversation can be difficult, I fully appreciate that. However, if you are concerned about your child's mental health, it is important to talk to a doctor or mental health professional.

It really is worth remembering, early diagnosis and treatment can make a big difference in the lives of young people with mental health conditions.

If you run any type of mental health and well-being support group across Lancashire, then please get in touch so I can include details in a future column wellbeing@martinfurber.com