Having worked with young people for much of my career, and as a parent, I see every day how complex and relentless the pressures are for today’s youth. Nearly half of Australians aged 12 to 25 now experience high or very high psychological distress, with mental health challenges rising every year. Suicide remains the leading cause of death for young people, devastating families and communities nationwide.
This crisis goes far beyond social media. Young people face academic demands, loneliness, discrimination, financial uncertainty and difficulty finding meaningful connection. By Year 10, almost one in four high school students report mental health problems. The impacts are widespread but support isn’t always easy to access.
Youth Focus offers free, confidential mental health services to young people aged 12 to 25 in WA. These evidence-based programs which are delivered quickly, without the need for referral, give thousands of young people hope and practical ways to manage distress every year.
Help me raise funds for Youth Focus. Your donation will directly help young people get the support they need, when they need it. Every dollar brings us closer to a future where mental illness and suicide don’t define young lives. Please support my Ride for Youth and help give young people the chance to thrive.
