FOR young people like 20-year-old Ash Wylie, a ground-breaking study by headspace, the National Youth Mental Health Foundation, brings a glimmer of hope for their future.
The study shows that tailored work and study support can significantly improve both mental wellbeing and quality of life.
Mr Wyllie, lacked confidence in job searching and career choices before joining the headspace program.
“I was able to ask questions, set goals and actually start achieving them,” he said.
“It helped me feel more in control of my life.”
With 21 per cent of families deeply concerned about the impact of work and study stress on their children’s mental health, the findings are a relief.
The research shows that young people who receive dedicated support for work and study, alongside mental health care, experience far greater improvements than those who only receive standard care.
Work and study are key to building confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging. Yet, a troubling 54 per cent of young Australians do not feel ready to apply for a job.
Carolyn Watts, Head of headspace’s Work and Study program, said that mental health challenges often created barriers to entering the workforce or higher education.
“Often, experiencing mental health challenges can lead to young people struggling to keep up with study or secure and maintain stable employment,” she said.
“The longer they remain disengaged, the harder it becomes to re-enter.”
The study revealed that those who received tailored support were up to a third more likely to experience significant improvements in mental health.
Headspace offers free phone and online counselling every day from 9am to 1am.
Additional 24/7 support services are also available, including Lifeline (13 11 14), Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800), and 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).
