Tellmi, a new mental health app, provides additional support to all young people aged 11 to 18

Tellmi is the latest mental health app designed with input from over 6,000 young people, providing a safe space for anonymous peer and counsellor support to young people aged 11 to 18. Available on both Android and iOS, the app has supported more than 85,000 young people nationwide since its 2017 launch. 

Tellmi allows young people to discuss challenging topics anonymously with others who are of similar age or share similar experiences. To ensure safety and support, each post and reply is reviewed by a human moderator before it is published. Tellmi is accessible around the clock – 24/7, all year – and uses age-specific groups to create a secure environment where young people can support one another and find mutual help. Accredited by the BACP, Tellmi ensures that all counsellors are fully qualified and meet the necessary standards to provide professional support.

Data from the Tellmi independent evaluation conducted by the Evidence Based Practice Unit at University College London found that 82% of young people said that Tellmi connects them to other young people with similar problems and 79% noted that the app helped them to feel less alone.

Since its launch, Tellmi has gained recognition from organisations such as the NHS and the Anna Freud Centre, which have praised its supportive approach for young people’s mental health. The app has also partnered with schools across the UK, integrating its platform into mental health programs to offer students additional support. Local councils and charities like YoungMinds and TimeToTalk have also worked with Tellmi to promote mental wellbeing, making support more accessible to young people in schools and communities.

Supporting young people's mental and emotional health

In the UK, one in five children and young people have a diagnosable mental health condition, and three-quarters of mental health issues develop by the age of 24. A key advantage of a digital mental health service like Tellmi is that it supports young people not only during their childhood but also as they move into adulthood. The app covers a broad spectrum of mental health concerns, from anxiety and depression to dating, self-esteem and social pressures as well as access to a huge directory of organisations that can provide additional information and support.

One user of the app, noted “Tellmi helped me connect with other members who are in the same boat as me. They have helped give me support and advice and made me know I’m not the only one suffering. This app has really changed things for me and I’ve really picked up loads of helpful advice from really caring members. It’s also nice that other people’s stories are available to read. This really helped me and made me see that speaking up was the best way to heal.” 

In addition to digital support services, working with a counsellor or therapist can be another way to help children and young people have the opportunity to speak to someone and express themselves in a safe, non-judgemental space.

To learn more about counselling for children and the issues it can address, visit Counselling Directory. With thousands of verified therapists available, you can easily search for a counsellor online or in your local area today. Additionally, visit our Happiful Kids section where you can find activities, news, and practical help to support positive mental and emotional health for you and your children.