Assessments are screening tools, not formal diagnoses; they are intended to provide an initial indication of potential concerns
6.32 Children and young people may experience a wide range of social and emotional difficulties which manifest themselves in many ways. These may include becoming withdrawn or isolated, as well as displaying challenging, disruptive or disturbing behaviour. These behaviours may reflect underlying mental health difficulties such as anxiety or depression, self-harming, substance misuse, eating disorders or physical symptoms that are medically unexplained. Other children and young people may have disorders such as attention deficit disorder (ADD), attention deficit hyperactive (ADHD) disorder or attachment disorder.
Typical needs: anxiety, low mood, emotional regulation, behaviour linked to underlying distress.
Assessments:
- Understand emotional triggers and behavioural patterns
- Inform pastoral support and mental health referrals
- Shape behaviour plans and therapeutic interventions.
Assessments help identify emotional wellbeing needs, internalising difficulties, or behaviour that may be masking anxiety or low self‑esteem.