Free mental health support for young people now available

Did you know that 12- to 25-year-olds can access a program called Headspace?

In rural areas such as Balranald, getting access to mental health assistance and a helping hand can feel like an impossibility. Headspace can facilitate access to skilled clinicians in the field, with video consultations.

This is completely free, and means young people can access quality care, while remaining in their community, not having to spend money and time travelling away regularly.

NSW Department of Education has engaged Headspace to deliver support via video link in Balranald Central School. There are options to engage services through email, phone video chat or web chat. This happens during school hours, and school staff members will arrange it all.

All you need to do if you want to schedule an appointment is to see the front office, chat to a teacher, or get in touch with Mrs White or Mrs Matarazzo. Your appointment and information remain completely confidential.

At the first appointment you fill in a registration form, complete a brief anonymous survey, and talk to someone about whatever might be troubling you.

Getting support early means you can get the ball rolling, cut your stress, build strengths, and work toward achieving goals.

The earlier someone engages in mental health help, the lesser the chance of it building up into something overwhelming.