The MOST program is now providing digital, on-demand therapeutic services to young Canberrans following its launch in the ACT.
MOST is an online program which offers bite-sized therapeutic activities, peer-led community discussions and practical strategies for young people aged 12-25 years experiencing mental health concerns.
Managed by Orygen, MOST provides online support that enhances the face-to-face clinical care delivered by local adolescent mental health services.
Minister for Mental Health Emma Davidson said MOST works hand-in-hand with local adolescent mental health services to deliver better mental health outcomes for young people in the ACT.
"Young people have been incredibly resilient when faced with the challenges of the past three years, but when things do impact their mental health and wellbeing, it is vital they have access to resources that meet their needs," Minister Davidson said.
"MOST works closely with local mental health services to deliver wraparound mental health support to ensure young Canberrans feel safe, secure and empowered to get the help they need when they need it."
Orygen has partnered with a number of local adolescent mental health services including Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), CatholicCare's Youth and Wellbeing Program and headspace ACT.
More than 70 local adolescent mental health service workers have received training and services have been referring young people to the additional support. MOST is about to welcome its 100th young Canberran to the program.
The ACT Government has funded Orygen to deliver the program for an 18-month trial and will commission an independent evaluation of the program to review its suitability for the ACT and make recommendations to optimise the service for young Canberrans.
"The mental health and wellbeing of children and young people is an important priority of the ACT Government," Minister Davidson said.
"We will work closely with MOST and our mental health and support services to build a community to address the many complex issues that impact the mental health of our young people."
