October is mental health awareness month, and research shows that 40 per cent of young people aged 16 to 24 have experienced mental illness in the last year. 

SENTRAL Youth Services — operated by Kiama Municipal Council — has been around for three decades and hopes to address the needs of young people in the community. 

Galavizh Ahmadi Nia, Manager Community Hubs, says young people are facing a number of stressors that could affect their mental health and that having a support network is crucial for outreach.

“The importance of feeling listened to and trusted in key adult relationships, and the need to feel safe, respected, and accepted when wanting to discuss mental health

and connect with others.”

Academic pressure, navigating social relationships, future uncertainty, media influence and social isolation are all factors that young people are tackling, Ahmadi Nia says. 

The federal government announced a national study led by Curtin University into mental health of Australians aged 4 to 17, a demographic that is largely underrepresented in available research.  

The latest research of this age group is from a decade ago, and the new study will be designed in consultation with kids within the age range. 

“A better understanding of child and adolescent mental health and wellbeing will shape more tailored mental health services to meet their needs,” Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, Emma McBride says. 

Recent headspace research found that 8 in 10 families were concerned about a young person’s mental health in their household. 

SENTRAL offers a range of free programs to support the social, recreation, health and wellbeing needs of young people, including mental health. 

“Through these programs, young people are encouraged to discuss matters of importance to them and the opportunity to express needs, including the need to discuss mental and

emotional experiences and challenges,” Ahmadi Nia says.

Young people who attend can participate in a one on one session with youth workers to discuss any personal concerns or goals they want to achieve. 

The introduction of headspace Kiama has provided additional resources and connections for the youth workers of SENTRAL, who are able to promote their services to young people who come through their doors.