With two in five youth now reporting a mental health condition, the National Youth Mental Health Foundation is asking people to stop and think about young people as part of headspace Day, today (5 October).
headspace chief executive Jason Trethowan said the demand for headspace services had never been greater.
“After the tumultuous events of the past two years, including Covid-19, enforced lockdowns and natural disasters, the proportion of young Australians experiencing mental ill-health has increased to two in every five,” he said.
Mr Trethowan said this year’s headspace Day theme, “Pause. Reflect. Reconnect” offered a way for youth to prioritise their mental health.
“Many young people coming to headspace say they are experiencing anxiety and depression, and report feeling busy, stressed or upset in their everyday lives,’’ he said.
“This mental and emotional pressure can make life feel really challenging for young people.
“It’s times like these we make space to pause, reflect on how we’re feeling, and then to reconnect with the people and things that make us feel good.”
People needing support can visit their local headspace centre or call or access online counselling services. eheadspace operates seven-days-a-week, between 9am and 1am (AEST). Call 1800 650 890 or e-mail www.headspace.org.au/reconnect.
For help 24-hours-a-day, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800.
