We are all responsible for looking after our own mental health and wellbeing – and we should be keeping a watchful eye on how people around us are travelling – especially young people.

The most recent Australian Bureau of Statistics figures show that in 2013, we lost 348 young people (aged 15 to 24) to suicide in one year. 

It’s a shocking fact that suicide remains the biggest killer of young Australians every year. 

Twice as many young people die as a result of suicide than as a result of car accidents. 

Further research suggests that three in four mental health conditions emerge by age 24 and half by age 14. 

Hope and recovery is possible and support is out there.

Young people need to be aware of this and be able to recognise the signs and symptoms of mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety, so they can take action to help themselves, or others, if they need it. 

Adults need to know so they can step in to lend a hand if a young person is psychologically distressed and requires guidance.

On our website, www.beyondblue.org.au there is a lot of helpful information including A parent’s guide to anxiety and depression in young people and videos to help you start a difficult conversation when you’re not sure what to say. 

At www.youthbeyondblue.com there is information specifically for young people and a link to the BRAVE Program which is an   interactive online program for the prevention and treatment of anxiety.

If you’re a young person, please understand that it’s okay to put your hand up and tell someone if you feel miserable most of the time, if you’re scared of being bullied by kids at school or if life at home is distressing.  

Talk to an adult you trust or call the beyondblue Support Service 24/7 on 1300 224 636, or chat online at beyondblue.org.au/get-support (3pm till midnight AEST). 

There are trained mental health professionals available to help you deal with problems and there are treatments that will work to get you on the road to recovery.

During National Youth Week, make a commitment to take responsibility for achieving your best possible mental health, not just this week, but every week of the year.