Each year, a quarter of all young people in this country will experience mental health issues, however many of them will not seek the help that they need.
New research, by the University of Melbourne, Orygen and Headspace revealed 26 per cent of young Australians aged 12–25 would not tell anyone about a personal mental health issue.
It also showed 52 per cent of young people are too embarrassed to discuss a mental health problem with anyone and nearly half were afraid of what others would think. The results also found 22 per cent would be unlikely or very unlikely to discuss it with their family doctor.
Stigma plays a profound and significant role in stopping Australian youth from seeking help for mental health issues.It can make it harder to ask for help and get support out of fear of being judged.
Spending time and getting to know people impacted by mental health issues, hearing their stories and understanding their experiences helps to change negative attitudes, reduce fear and social distance.The other is education, providing information and knowledge about mental health issues and the benefits of seeking help and seeking help early.
To combat stigma, headspace launched a vital new national awareness campaign aimed at informing Australians that the more we talk openly about mental health issues, the easier it becomes for young people to seek help.
Te new digital hub launched this week is complete with a virtual stigma to tear down, and links to resources and tools for friends and family seeking to support youth with mental health issues: Visit www.thebigstigma.com.au
Removing the stigma of mental health will be discussed at The 17th International Mental Health Conference to be held at the brand new Sea World Resort Conference Centre on the Gold Coast, QLD from the 11 -12 August 2016.
You are invited to join us as we address the conference theme “Guiding the Change” across the broad spectrum of mental disorders. To register for the conference CLICK HERE.
