All young people deserve access to mental health support where they live.
Youth Focus has launched a campaign to raise vital awareness and funds to connect more young people living in regional and remote areas with mental health support – when and where they need it.
A little support in the right place can turn a young person’s life around.
In her early 20s, Imogen* did something incredibly brave. She moved alone to a small regional town to start a new job.
She hoped the move away from Perth would help to reduce stress, which was contributing to a severe tic disorder similar to Tourette’s.
Following the move, Imogen* was still in a difficult place mentally, and she was now far away from her support network.
She reached out to Youth Focus and was given support from local counsellors, who helped her to see what she was truly capable of.
Imogen* had always been interested in art and craft but had never believed she was very good at it. With encouragement she entered, and subsequently won, the local ‘Blank Walls’ art competition.
Youth Focus wants to remove the barriers that prevent young people in the regions from accessing mental health support so when they are brave enough to put their hand up for help, they can access what they need, when they need it, at no cost.
Imogen said reaching out for help can be challenging for young people in regional WA.
“Living in a small regional town, there can be stigma around it. Youth Focus is so good at understanding that and offers a space that feels safe and confidential. I felt so welcomed.
Having a place to go locally is life changing. When I was in the city, before I developed my tics, I could feel within me something was about to snap.
I contacted so many people and was put on countless wait lists, but by the time I got an appointment it was too late and I had already been hospitalised.” she said
Youth Focus wants there to be free access to youth-focused mental health counsellors and support right across Western Australia, from Albany to Meekatharra.
With your support, together we can make a difference.
*The young person’s name and image have been changed to protect their privacy.
