Everyone has off days, but look out for changes that last, such as:

• Becoming withdrawn, quieter or more irritable than usual
• Changes in sleep, appetite or energy
• Losing enjoyment in performing, or worrying a lot before shows
• Being very self-critical about their performance or appearance
• Pulling away from friends, family or the rest of the company

• Make time to listen, somewhere they feel comfortable, and take what they say seriously.
• Stay calm and don't judge. You don't need to have all the answers.
• Be honest about confidentiality. Don't promise to keep a secret if they may be at risk. Explain that you may need to involve someone who can help.
• Involve the right people, such as their parent or carer, their chaperone, or the company's safeguarding lead.

• Protect rest and life outside the show, with time for school, friends, family and hobbies.
• Praise effort, not just results, and help them see that notes and auditions are part of learning.
• Keep an eye on social media and public attention, and talk openly about what they see online.
• Create a culture where it's okay to speak up if something doesn't feel right.

Leaving a show can feel like a real loss, even when it was always planned. It's common to feel flat or low afterwards.

Talk about it ahead of time, mark the moment, and help them plan things to look forward to. Keep an eye on how they're feeling in the weeks after.