A group of young people in Wakefield have taken an innovative approach to supporting mental health, creating a unique “Crash Out Journal” as part of their Future SELPH challenge project with The Youth Association.
The Future SELPH programme encourages young people to identify issues affecting them and develop creative, meaningful solutions. As part of the Challenge Phase, groups are asked to design a project that stretches their teamwork and leadership skills while addressing a real need in their communities. Previous groups have delivered seminars for mental health professionals in Wakefield and designed awareness posters for college campuses.
This summer, one group chose a different path by developing a youth-led wellbeing resource. After taking part in Emotional Baggage and Cathartic Coping Mechanism sessions, the group strongly connected with the idea of catharsis as a way to process emotions. Inspired by this, they decided to create the “Crash Out Journal” to support both themselves and other young people.
The result is a personalised and interactive wellbeing tool filled with affirmations to build confidence and mindfulness activities to support those experiencing anxiety. It also includes colouring pages featuring original artwork hand-drawn by a member of the group, alongside creative exercises that encourage emotional expression. One of the standout features is a “mess this up” page, inviting users to scribble, scrunch or tear the page as a way of releasing emotion. A mindful counting exercise is also included to help distract from negative thoughts and support emotional regulation.
The journal opens with author notes from each participant, sharing their personal motivations and what they hope others will gain from using it. This reinforces that the resource has been created by young people, for young people.
After designing the journal, the group presented their work to youth workers across The Youth Association, making an immediate impression. Staff quickly recognised its potential and were keen to introduce it into their own sessions.
Youth workers in Leeds soon began distributing the Crash Out Journals, and the response from young people has been overwhelmingly positive. Youth workers observed young people using the mindfulness exercises in the moment to help manage their emotions.
The Crash Out Journal is a powerful example of youth voice in action. By leading the design process, the group created something meaningful, relatable and impactful. This demonstrates the value of giving young people the space to shape the support they receive.
