YOUNGSTERS from a Cradley Heath school were given an insight into how mental health problems affect people in a series of activities.

Ormiston Forge Academy pupils from Year 7 to 10 took part in Mental Health Awareness Week to discuss pressures that can lead to problems among young people and the warning signs to look out for.

Sessions also provided them with methods they can undertake to improve their day-to-day mental health and information on what they can do to seek help.

The Academy has also designed a Google survey for students to help produce a bigger picture of what their worries might be and the sorts of sessions they would find useful to help them deal with different mental health issues.

Children also raised money for mental health charity Mind by selling green ribbons to wear on lapels.

Andrew Burns, Principal of Ormiston Forge Academy, said: “Through this exciting week of events we hope to raise awareness and start a real conversation about the importance of mental health issues.

“We want to encourage a culture where students feel they can be open and talk about any pressures or worries they may have.

“Promoting good mental health is a key priority for academies across the OAT network and we aim to be one of the academy’s leading the way on this in the West Midlands area.”