Young people are not immune to the impacts of poor mental health.
Isolation, climate factors and succession planning, as well as lack of services, employment opportunities and recreational activities can have huge psychological impacts on young rural people.
People can take steps to lessen the mental health impact caused by such issues. These will be discussed at the Friday Forum at theland.com.au on May 11 at noon.
The Land and RAMHP have partnered to get people talking about mental health. An expert panel will answer questions, including:
- How to address issues young rural people face
- How to recognise the signs a young person may be struggling
- Strategies to support young people
- Where to go for help
- How to recognise normal reactions
- Why some young people don't seek help, and what can be done.
The panel includes Rob O'Leary, from batyr; Leigh Underwood, from headspace, Dubbo; and a representative from Youth Action Council (YAC) and Designing Futures programs.
Rob O’Leary is the Being Herd program manager at batyr. The program trains people aged 18 to 30 to share their lived experience with mental ill health in a safe and effective way.
Leigh Underwood is a clinical psychologist with about 30 years of experience, who has worked in Juvenile Justice, Child and Adolescent Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol, Community Health and Mental Health.
YAC organises activities and discusses ideas to address youth issues. Designing Futures encourages Aboriginal girls to follow dreams, and stay in education.
- Contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.
Join the forum here:
Hi all, unfortunately there is a technical issue and we are going to have to postpone the forum today. We will let you know the rescheduled date soon.