Youth Ambassadors bringing communities together around youth mental health

24 June 2015

Recently, a number of stellar young Australians have outdone themselves in raising awareness of youth mental health issues in their communities. From classroom talks with high school students and stalls at universities, to a regional mental health info night headlined by a federal Senator, ReachOut Youth Ambassadors are doing amazing things in their communities.

Last week, ReachOut Youth Ambassador Amber singlehandedly organised a mental health info night in Heyfield, Victoria, which was attended by more than 120 people, including representatives from Latrobe Regional Health Mental Health, Heyfield Community Resource Centre and Wellington Shire Youth Council. At the event, Senator Ricky Muir announced his support for marriage equality, citing the positive impact equality would have on young Australians who live in regional and rural areas. But that’s not all: Amber also raised heaps of funds for ReachOut Australia’s services.

Senator Ricky Muir announced his support of marriage equality at an event in regional Victoria organised by ReachOut Youth Ambassador Amber.

In the same month, Grady organised two stalls during Stress Less Week at the University of Western Australia. Grady talked with university students about how to take care of themselves and their mates, and where to get an extra hand during tough times. Grady, Jake, Ariana, and Hayley are part of a team of Youth Ambassadors at the university who work together to make mental health an everyday part of study.

Grady and Jake held a ReachOut stall at the University of Western Australia's Stress Less Week.

And just recently, Razia spoke to Galilee Catholic School in Adelaide about ReachOut and how to take care of your wellbeing. She was invited to speak as part of the school’s approach to developing wellbeing , but she didn’t stop there: in the same week, Razia ran two ReachOut stalls at Flinders University’s Multicultural Festival.

Razia spoke to Galilee Catholic School about how to take care of your wellbeing.

Jono Nicholas, CEO of ReachOut Australia said “Every day we are inspired by the incredible things ReachOut Youth Ambassadors do to raise awareness of youth mental health and to encourage other young people seek help when they need it.

Billy Russell, Youth Involvement Coordinator at ReachOut, said his favourite part of the job is “Being face-to-face with young people who are so talented and passionate about helping others. It’s beyond energising.”

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