The headspace campaign 'Take a Step' campaign aims to support the mental health of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. It aims to empower young people to recognise when things aren't right and to take steps to be okay.
'Take a step' is about teaching young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people the importance of asking for help when they need it. Sometimes all you need to do is have a yarn to someone. You can take charge of this aspect of your social and emotional wellbeing. Seeking help is normal and good.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 24 and under are 3 times more likely than other young people to die by suicide.
In hard times, our connections help us understand that we are not alone. We are a community; we have a shared experience and can support each other.
The 'Take a Step' suite of resources encourages young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to recognise the signs that something's not right - and provides small, practical steps towards feeling better.
These resources have been co-developed with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members from across Australia, including young people with lived experience of mental ill-health. These have been created for young people, and for family and friends who have a young person in their lives.
If you or anyone you know is struggling with mental ill-health, call or visit the online resources below:
• Lifeline - 13 11 14
• Beyond Blue - 1300 224 636, beyondblue.org.au/forums
• MensLine - 1300 789 978
• Kids Helpline - 1800 551 800
• Suicide Call Back Service - 1300 659 467
• Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet
