What helps young people stay mentally well?
These five short films explore the pressures that they face as children, teenagers and young adults, from family difficulties and hidden health conditions to bullying and social media. Together, they show how supportive relationships, welcoming communities, creativity, physical activity and time in nature can offer connection, confidence and hope.
Includes a post-screening discussion with filmmakers including Sophie van Bree (Sea of Mind), Gracie Jacobson (Sticks and Stones) and Jo Hartland (Lily’s House).
About the Programme
Sticks and Stones
dir. Gracie Jacobson (Scotland, 2026) 14m
World Premiere
Sticks and Stones follows two hobby horse competitors as they train and compete for a place in the national championships. Navigating bullying, mental health challenges, identity and growing social media fame, they discover the joys of creativity and competition while confronting the pressures of fitting in and the challenges of breaking free.
Sea of Mind
dir. Sophie van Bree (Netherlands, 2025) 26m
International Premiere
Sea of Mind is a poetic portrait of 25-year-old Kim, whose mind is constantly filled with compulsions. A year ago, she stood at the shore in the middle of the night, ready to run away from her turbulent innerworld. Released from crisis care, she decides to face the monsters in her head while doing a surf course for people with mental health struggles. What happens when you let go of control?
Themes of suicide.
Let Me Find Myself
dir. Annick Sickinghe (Netherlands, 2026) 15m
International Premiere
After surviving a brain tumour as a child, Fleur lives with an acquired brain injury. Now she is leaving Maastricht for Amsterdam to study music and live independently. Following Fleur and her parents as they navigate the hopes and anxieties of separation, this intimate documentary explores coming of age, letting go and finding your own path while navigating a hidden health condition.
Lily’s House
dir. Matthew Howell (United Kingdom, 2025) 13m
Scottish Premiere
Told through seven-year-old Lily’s eyes, this tender short explores the impact of her father’s depression on family life. Listening behind closed doors, Lily pieces together what is happening and uses her favourite game, inspired by Little Red Riding Hood, to try to reach the dad she knows. A subtle and authentic portrait of parental mental ill health, communication and kindness.
Wild Camps: A Research Project on Connecting Young People from Urban Areas with Nature
dir. Stewart Baxter (United Kingdom, 2025) 9m
Scottish Premiere
Co-created with young people in Hull, the UK’s least wooded city, this film captures a five-day nature immersion experience with Rewilding Youth. In their own words, they reflect on digital life, safety and connection, moving from initial reluctance to curiosity, calm and belonging. A hopeful example of participatory filmmaking exploring how nature can support mental health in everyday life.
