It also commends the young people who have bravely taken the step to seek support.
headspace is Australia’s primary national platform for young people aged 12 to 25 years old who are experiencing, or at risk of, mild to moderate mental illness.
At headspace Echuca, a large portion of the young people it supports are aged 12 to 14, at 37 per cent, and 15 to 17 at 31 per cent, with common concerns including sadness, depression and anxiety.
Since opening its doors in March 2022, headspace Echuca has received more than 1000 referrals for young people.
This milestone highlights both the demand for mental health services in our area and our community’s commitment to addressing these needs.
“It really shows the level of support and need there has been for a service like this in the region, and we’re thrilled to be part of such a strong local community,” headspace Echuca manager Meaghan Sully said.
At the time of applying for the lead agency role, Echuca Regional Health had a depth of support within the community to provide an engaged leadership role that would ensure young people had timely access to care relating to mental health, wellbeing and alcohol and other drugs, physical and sexual health and employment and training support.
ERH executive director of community services Cynthia Robins was involved at all stages of the headspace Echuca development.
“We would like to thank all 23 local agencies, service providers and businesses that provided ERH with a letter of support, in addition to the driving voice of the 33-member agencies within the Campaspe Murray Mental Health Network,” Ms Robins said.
Mental Health Month is an opportunity for Australians to come together, raise awareness and promote mental health and wellbeing for all.
Throughout October, numerous events and programs will bring people from all backgrounds together to share the latest information, foster understanding and encourage action around mental health challenges.
During this month, there will be headspace Echuca representatives at various community events, including Njernda’s Yarka Yakapna Corroboree Family Fun Day which was held on October 3, Campaspe Murray Mental Health and Wellbeing Network Expo in Kyabram on October 10 and Charles L King & Co First National Big Blue Table Long Lunch on October 25.
Additionally, headspace Day will be celebrated on Wednesday, October 9, with this year’s theme Pause, Reflect and Reconnect.
“Young people today juggle a lot — emotional ups and downs, figuring out who they are, and wondering about the future,” Ms Sully said.
“Plus, balancing who they are online and offline. That’s a whole extra level.
“This mix of mental, emotional and intellectual challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming.
“We want young people to know that by pausing and reflecting, they can find the space and energy to reconnect.
“Reconnecting with others, work, study, nature, hobbies and the things a person loves, can positively impact their mental wellbeing and build their resilience.”
For young people needing support, headspace Echuca offers several ways to connect:
Visit headspace.org.au/headspace-centres/Echuca and complete the online referral form, call on (03) 5485 5048, email headspace@erh.org.au, or visit in-person at 451 High St, Echuca.
Young people are also encouraged to consider eheadspace, an online and phone support service for people aged 12 to 25, their families and friends.
eheadspace is staffed by experienced and qualified youth mental health professionals.
This option can be accessed at www.headspace.org.au where web-chat or email support is available, or call 1800 650 890.
eheadspace operates from 9am to 1am (AEST), every day of the year.
Other support services available are Lifeline on 131 114, Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800, Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467 or 13YARN on 139 276.
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