Reclaiming Headspace: Why Youth Mental Health Support Matters in Parramatta
- Adeline Teoh
- 12 hours ago
- 2 min read
How Headspace Parramatta Supports Young People’s Mental Health
By Adeline Teoh
Youth mental health is a key investment we can make for the future well-being of our society. Especially considering three-quarters of mental health problems occur before the age of 25, and the leading cause of death for people aged 15-24 is suicide, mental health support for youth is one of the best investments we can make for the future well-being of our society.
Headspace Parramatta, funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care and run by Flourish Australia, provides free early intervention mental health support, services and information to people aged 12-25, and the people around them.
Where to access Mental Health Support in Parramatta
Located a short walk from the Parramatta transport hub (and also available online and by phone), it’s an accessible service that gives young people autonomy by allowing them to make confidential appointments. There, they can discuss their mental or physical health, including sexual health and alcohol and drug use, with a clinician or other health professional.
Many mental health challenges begin with common anxieties, for example, regarding study or work. More than two in five Year 12 students report symptoms of anxiety and depression higher than the normal range for their age group, so headspace provides study support and tips on applying for jobs and doing job interviews.
Youth are also more susceptible to certain stressors, such as bullying, uncertainty around gender or sexual identity, and unhealthy relationships. This manifests in serious symptoms including sleep disorders, eating disorders, drug and alcohol abuse, and even suicidal ideation.
The Headspace team is well equipped to address these challenges, giving young people access to mental health workers such as psychologists, psychiatrists and counsellors, no matter how common or seemingly minor the issue – the aim is to provide preventative help.
For people outside the age bracket, but who are connected to youth in their capacity as carers, friends, mentors, teachers and coaches, headspace.org.au offers a range of resources, including explainer videos, fact sheets and guidelines, plus training and critical incident response programs, to assist with supporting the youth in your life.
Why Mental Health Matters
You may be lucky to never need a service like headspace, but with one in five Australians over the age of 16 experiencing mental illness each year, it’s good to know there’s a centre in Parramatta.
3 tips to support youth:
Don’t assume. If you notice behavioural changes, it can be tempting to guess what’s going on, but wait until you have the full story before you offer advice. Some changes may be developmentally appropriate. Change may also be influenced by their cultural, family and personal experiences, and trauma.
Listen without judgement. They have come to you for a reason; offer them your attention. Create a safe space for the young person to release their emotions. Listening with empathy and compassion can be just as valuable as offering solutions.
Help in any way you can. If you are unsure about what action to take or are unable to help, refer them to a professional.
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