This week, the Chancellor’s visible emotion in public prompted widespread attention — not because emotion is rare, but because seeing it openly expressed by a leader still feels unfamiliar.
In my work with children and young people, I’m reminded daily that society still sends powerful messages about emotional expression — particularly that tears are a sign of weakness.
I still hear it:
“Don’t cry.”
“You’re fine.”
“Be strong.”
But if we want to improve mental health outcomes for the next generation, we must shift that narrative.
Children need:
✔️ Adults who model emotional honesty
✔️ Language to name and process feelings
✔️ Environments where vulnerability is met with support, not silence
Tears are not the problem — teaching children that emotions are something to hide, is.