This March, local Kiama resident Asha Ardill is diving into a 20-kilometre swimming challenge to raise awareness and funds for youth mental health. Participating in the annual Laps for Life campaign, Asha is committed to supporting ReachOut Australia, a life-saving organisation providing vital resources to teens experiencing mental health challenges and their families.

"It’s already tough for kids, and mental health struggles can make it even harder. ReachOut is a life-saving organisation, and I want to do my part to help ensure young people get the support they need," Asha said.

Laps for Life is ReachOut Australia’s flagship fundraising event, highlighting the urgent need for mental health support among young Australians. Statistics show that one in three young people in Australia are currently facing mental health difficulties, and tragically, suicide remains the leading cause of death for young Australians.

ReachOut Australia provides a unique, free, and safe online space where young people can seek anonymous support through peer chat, online forums, and expert resources. The organisation also extends support to parents, carers, and schools, offering guidance on how to best assist young people facing mental health challenges. Last year alone, ReachOut reached over 2.5 million Australians in need.

Asha’s fundraising efforts will contribute directly to ensuring more young people have access to these essential services. Community members who wish to support her challenge can donate via her fundraising page: https://www.lapsforlife.com.au/fundraisers/ashaardill/laps-for-life.

For more information about Laps for Life and the critical work being done by ReachOut Australia, visit https://www.lapsforlife.com.au/about/the-cause or https://au.reachout.com/.

As Asha embarks on this ambitious challenge, she hopes to inspire others to take action, start conversations, and support the mental well-being of young Australians. Every lap counts in the fight for better mental health support.