Globally, one in seven 10-19 year olds experiences a mental health disorder. Depression, anxiety and behavioural disorders are among the leading causes of illness and disability among adolescents. Suicide is the third leading cause of death among those aged 15–29 years old.
For these reasons, I have fought hard to deliver Headspace services for our young people in Warrnambool, Portland and Colac and I’m very proud that Headspace has now opened a centre in Hamilton. While the official opening is yet to occur, it's fantastic that the services are up and running.
My focus now is to secure funding for an Ararat Headspace. Peter Dutton joined me in advocating for this during his recent visit to Ararat.
