Social, Emotional & Mental Health (SEMH) Needs

In one sentence

SEMH needs include difficulties with emotions, behaviour regulation, mental health, and social relationships.

What parents often notice first

• Frequent emotional outbursts or shutdowns.
• Anxiety about school, friends or new situations.
• Very low confidence or self-esteem.
• Friendship difficulties or isolation.
• Risky, withdrawn or aggressive behaviour.

What this means day-to-day

SEMH needs often sit underneath behaviour that looks ‘challenging’. Children may be communicating distress, anxiety, trauma or unmet needs through their actions.

When to seek help

If emotional or behavioural difficulties are long-term, intense, and impacting safety, learning or wellbeing.

Who can help

• SENCO
• CAMHS
• Counsellor or therapist
• Educational Psychologist
• GP

Common myths

• Myth: SEMH is just naughty behaviour.
  Truth: Behaviour is communication. SEMH needs often reflect deeper worries, trauma or unmet emotional needs.
• Myth: Talking about mental health will make it worse.
  Truth: Open, supportive conversations usually reduce shame and help children feel understood.