Young people across the Bellarine will now have easier access to mental health services with the official opening of a new headspace satellite in Ocean Grove on March 4.
The service will allow young people in the Ocean Grove region to access vital mental health services.
One in four young Australians are affected by a mental illness every year. Many young people have also been substantially affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, making it more important than ever to ensure access to youth mental health services.
The headspace program aims to improve access for young people aged 12 to 25 years who have, or are at risk of, mental illness. headspace provides free or low cost youth-friendly support in four key areas—mental health, related physical health, substance misuse, and social and vocational support.
Minister for Health and Aged Care, Greg Hunt, said the new service is part of the federal government’s $111.3 million commitment to establish 30 new headspace services across the country.
“We know that the pandemic and the measures taken to contain it have been incredibly difficult and stressful for many Australians, and particularly younger Australians,” Minister Hunt said.
“That is why we are prioritising mental health support, ensuring that young people have access to care to help them recover and reach their full potential as we reopen the country.”
Senator for Victoria Sarah Henderson said the official opening of the Ocean Grove site will provide localised, tailored support for young people close to home.
“There are more pressures on young people today than ever before and the expansion of headspace will be vitally important in providing additional services for young people in Ocean Grove,” Senator Henderson said.
“We know intervention at the earliest possible stage is important to reduce the duration and impact of mental illness, so I encourage young people in our community to reach out if they need help.”
This headspace satellite service has been commissioned by the Western Victoria Primary Health Network and is located at 78 Presidents Avenue.
Young Australians needing support can access free services through their local headspace or online through eheadspace (headspace.org.au/eheadspace/).
Anyone experiencing distress can seek immediate advice and support through Lifeline (13 11 14), Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800), or the Government’s digital mental health gateway, Head to Health (www.headtohealth.gov.au).
