Young people are among the worst affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The social and economic impact on young people have been significant. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare recently noted that young Australians have experienced high rates of psychological distress, loneliness, educational disruption, unemployment, housing stress and domestic violence. ¹
That’s why this year’s Youth Mental Health Day (YMHD) is more important than ever. YMHD encourages young adults to have open discussions about their mental health and listen to their peers with compassion and understating.
This year’s YMHD theme is #StrideForward. Stem4, the charity that founded this day, is urging all young adults to come together, and share how they will #StrideForward to work towards good mental health.
VOICE Operations Manager and Senior Psychologist Simon Mamone says, “Youth mental health and wellbeing remains a key focus as the impacts of the pandemic take a toll. But while the impacts of the pandemic remain high, there are some positives, as lived experiences have offset some of the unknowns from the start of the pandemic, making it more important to share these experiences through conversations for better mental health.”
The Sarina Russo Group is encouraging all young adults to sit down and reflect on their past year. How has the pandemic affected you? What goals can you set to #StrideForward? Once you have answered both questions, we encourage you to write it down and if you’re comfortable, share it on social media and spread the word.
An example of a #StrideForward status: “I spent the majority of last year in my bedroom. I am going to #StrideFoward by going for walks every day. Being outdoors and getting fresh air makes me happy”.
