Governor-General launches mentors program

Vice-Chancellor Ian Young with Governor-General Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce AC

The Australian Foundation for Mental Health Research’s (AFFIRM) Youth Ambassador Program has been officially launched by the Governor-General of Australia, Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce AC at The Australian National University.

Coinciding with National Mental Health week, the launch of the Program recognised 58 volunteer Canberra secondary students, who will engage in leadership activities throughout 2011 to raise awareness of mental health issues with their peers.

Deputy Director of the ANU Centre for Mental Health Research Professor Kathy Griffiths said that improving mental health in young people and increasing help-seeking is a key priority in mental health research, schools and the community. 

"One in four young people will experience an episode of clinical anxiety or depression by the age of 19," Professor Griffiths said.

"While these can be treated effectively only 25 per cent of young people will actually seek help when they need it. Recognition of mental health issues, access and availability of services and stigma represent significant barriers.

"Education is key in raising awareness of the frequency, nature and impact of mental health issues in young people and highlighting available sources of help.  However, research indicates that young people are more likely to go to their peers for help and support than formal services, and this gap increases throughout adolescence. Of the numerous barriers to seeking help from professionals, stigma represents one of the greatest due to the shame and judgement that often surrounds mental illness," she said.

The AFFIRM Youth Ambassadors Program has trained students from 26 secondary schools in Canberra. They are undertaking activities to raise awareness, reduce stigma and encourage help-seeking including speaking in class groups and assembly, working with the primary at their school to design campaigns and distribute posters with information, speaking with members of the community, participating in media stories and attending community events focused on youth mental health.

The launch of the Program has been sponsored by the ACT Government Health Directorate.