Students at a secondary school have been taught how to recognise when they are struggling with poor mental health and to ask for support.

Time to Talk Day was an workshop opportunity for Sir Frederick Gibberd College, on First Avenue, Harlow, to seek help and identify when suffering throughout the week.

Pupils also took part in an Inside Out Day, wearing part of their uniform in the wrong way to demonstrate their feelings are not always reflected on the outside.

Assistant headteacher Cheree Leverington said: “Mental health is just as important as physical health, so we want our young people to be aware of how they are feeling.

“You would not say to a child with a broken leg ‘just walk it off, you will be fine’. So, you should not tell a child who is feeling distressed or overwhelmed or showing signs of depression to cheer up and they will be fine.

“Some negative feelings are natural; anxiety is a normal part of life, to a certain extent. They are growing up and puberty is kicking in.

“But, some of these feelings can be a sign of ill mental health and it’s vital our children recognise the difference and know how to seek help.”

Mrs Leverington has also presented to parents about mental health, explaining its importance, how to recognise signs and where to go for help.

Mrs Leverington, who ran workshops with students and staff, added: “Just because someone looks fine, does not mean they feel fine on the inside and it is important for our students to understand this and come to us when they are not feeling ok.”