headspace National Youth Mental Health Foundation will today host its inaugural ‘Million for Mental Health Day’, aiming to raise $1 million for services that empower family members to support their young people’s mental health journeys.

Money raised will fund a range of headspace programs for family members, who play a vital role supporting the mental health of the young people in their lives.

Family programs at headspace are designed to ensure loved ones have the knowledge and skills to recognise the signs of mental ill-health in young people and guide their recovery towards better mental health and wellbeing.

“Million for Mental Health Day could not come at a more important time for young Australians,” headspace CEO Jason Trethowan said.

“The ongoing impacts of COVID-19, natural disasters and the pressures of daily life have seen more and more young people reaching out to headspace for support.

“With 2 in 5 of those aged between 16 and 24 experiencing mental ill-health, we know that mental health is one of the single greatest concerns for young people.

“Family members are often best placed to notice a change in a young person's mental health or wellbeing.

“Too often parents, siblings and other family members feel unsure about what to say or do to help their young person - or where to go for help.

“With your support, headspace can equip family members with the knowledge, skills and advice they need to be the best supports possible for their young people.

“Our work supporting families is only made possible thanks to the generosity of corporate partners, philanthropy, and the community, so we’d like to thank everyone involved in this exciting campaign, and we’d encourage everyone to support in any way they can.”

South Australian mother Sharene Dearlove is one of the faces of the Million for Mental Health Day campaign, having sought support from headspace for her daughter.

“headspace really helped us understand what was going on and how we could best support our daughter on her journey.

“Families are the ones who are there every day for young people, and the more resources we can provide them, the better our young people’s outcomes will be.

“Our young people are the future, so we need to support them to get through these tough times,” Sharene said.

The campaign has already been supported by Major Matching Partners Accent Group, COS, Helping Humans, Lendlease and Sportsgirl.

You can find out more about the Million for Mental Health Day campaign by going to https://fundraising.headspace.org.au/event/million-for-mental-health-day or calling headspace on 1800 650 890.

We encourage any young person, family, or friends in need of support to visit their local headspace centre. Support is also available via phone and online counselling service eheadspace seven days a week between 9am–1am (AEST). The number is 1800 650 890.

If you’re looking for someone to talk to immediately, Lifeline (13 11 14) and Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) are available to talk 24/7.