The national youth mental health foundation, headspace, is encouraging community members to join dawn processions through Sydney and Melbourne this weekend in support of young people touched by suicide and mental illness. headspace is proud to be the charity partner of this Saturday's Darkness into Light events in Melbourne and Sydney. The five-kilometre morning walk was first held in Ireland in 2009 to raise awareness about suicide prevention. Today more than 200 official walks occur worldwide, with more than 250,000 people taking part every year. As the national youth mental health foundation, headspace provides early intervention mental health care to young people aged 12-25, supporting them to get back on track and live happy healthy lives. headspace National Clinical Advisor Simon Dodd said the support comes after a difficult few years for young people, with COVID, natural disasters and the cost of living having an impact on the lives of many young people. "Every year, two in five young people experience mental ill-health. Suicide also remains the leading cause of death among young Australians," Mr Dodd said. "Events like Darkness into Light help break down stigma around suicide and mental illness, and can encourage young people and their families to reach out for support in tough times. "We know that being connected to family, friends and the community is an important protective factor for good mental health. That's why it's important to have opportunities like this to gather and think about how we can support each other. "Darkness into Light is also a good way to keep active, which is another important tip for a healthy headspace. "Funds raised will make it possible for headspace to offer more support for young people in tough times. We are grateful to Darkness into Light and to all participants for their support of headspace." To register, visit: http://www.darknessintolight.ie Young people aged 12 to 25, as well as their family and friends can visit headspace for support. Help is also available via phone and online counselling service, eheadspace, seven days a week between 9am–1am (AEST). The number is 1800 650 890.
If you're looking for someone to talk to immediately, Lifeline (13 11 14) and Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) are available to talk 24/7. Event details:
Sydney
- Bondi Beach, Sydney – 5:15am, Saturday 6 May
- Wanda SLSC, Cronulla, Sydney – 5:30am, Saturday 6 May
Melbourne
- Albert Park, Melbourne – 5:30am, Saturday 6 May
