Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week took place from February 3 to 9 and Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust is encouraging families to download a groundbreaking online game designed to support young people’s mental wellbeing.
The free Lumi Nova app offers a fresh, interactive approach to help children aged seven to 12 understand and manage their fears and anxieties through a combination of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and ethical gaming.
Developed in collaboration with parents, NHS clinicians, educators, mental health experts, and young people, Lumi Nova empowers users to self-manage their emotions in a safe, engaging environment.
The NICE-approved app transforms mental health support into a fun, game-like CBT techniques to build resilience, develop coping skills, and gain confidence.
“Many young people experience symptoms of anxiety, such as excessive worry or avoidance, which can start to impact their daily lives”, said Sonja Upton, associate director of children, young people, families, and specialist primary care.
“Lumi Nova provides a fun and interactive way for children to learn practical, lifelong strategies to tackle anxiety, all within a safe digital space.
“We’re thrilled to offer this innovative tool to young people locally, providing them with free, on-demand support when they need it”.
The app can be used as a first-line treatment option to support anxiety before interventions like therapy are considered or can be used to help bridge the gap in mental healthcare provision for children with mild to moderate anxiety.
It can be downloaded without the need for a prescription or referral and although designed for independent use is most effective when a child is supported by a parent or trusted adult.
Visit: https://luminova.app/handw to download.
