As a part of the headcoach campaign, headspace National Youth Mental Health Foundation has revealed startling data on the levels of psychological distress and help-seeking in young men.
Recent research of 18– 25 year old men across Australia shows that:
- Nearly a third (31%) of 18-25 year old young men report high or very high levels of psychological distress; and
- 35% of these young men have never sought support from a mental health professional.
CEO of headspace, Jason Trethowan, said this research, yet again, reveals alarming and deeply concerning increases in the levels of psychological distress currently being experienced by young men and how these young men are not seeking help from a mental health professional.
"These figures are far too high and should be taken as a serious warning that the mental health and wellbeing of young men really needs to be prioritised," he said.
"Our research clearly shows that young men are not seeking help to manage their mental health.
"We want to encourage all young men to try one of our seven healthy headspace tips to help them focus on maintaining their mental health as much as they do their physical health."
In line with the start of the AFL and NRL seasons, headcoach sees some of the nation's most high profile elite athletes share tips and advice from their own experience, highlighting the importance to young men of training their bodies and their minds.
There are a range of reasons why so many young men have a tough time recognising the importance of maintaining their mental health including traditional gender role stereotypes, inability to identify early warning signs and a reluctance to let anyone know if they are struggling.
headspace youth advocate Fergus Patterson wants to encourage young men to be proactive in maintaining their mental health.
"I have been using the healthy headspace tips in my daily life. For me, the most impactful has been connecting and staying active. Interacting with all different types of people has really helped me feel more comfortable and confident. Staying active has also helped me stay fit and healthy. It's really important to care for your body as well as your mind," he said.
"If you are struggling, I would encourage you to speak to a family member, friend, partner or someone you trust so that someone knows how you are feeling. The seven tips for a health headspace is a great way to start."
If you, or a young man you know is struggling they can seek support at headspace through face-to-face, online and telephone services.
The seven tips to maintaining a healthy headspace can be found at www.headspace.org.au/headcoach
