The youth mental health statistic educators can’t ignore

As those in the education sector will likely be aware, last week’s release of the Productivity Commission’s National School Reform Agreement includes a recommendation that student wellbeing should be made a national priority. The report states that a renewed focus on the wellbeing of our students is needed to address persistent inequalities in educational outcomes.?

While our educators are working hard to deliver the curriculum while balancing the many other aspects of their role, when student wellbeing is sub-par, educational outcomes are affected. And, unless you’ve spent the last couple of years hibernating in a cave, with noise-cancelling headphones and zero screentime, you will be aware that our young people are facing a mental health crisis.???

While the pandemic affected all of us, now it appears that the mental health ‘shadow pandemic’ experts have been heralding for a couple of years is finally playing out in the data. Last year, the Australian Bureau of Statistics released The National Mental Health Survey – and findings revealed that almost 40% of young Australians aged 16 to 24 are experiencing mental ill-health. ?

This data, collected between 2020-2021, also shows the figures are rising somewhat rapidly; up from 26% in 2007. According to these latest findings, two in five of the students we see in Australian classrooms are now – perhaps despite outward appearances – struggling.??

If you’re an educator yourself, whether you’re a teacher, principal, year coordinator or other education professional, you’ll know that those in the field frequently report getting into education thanks to a desire to inspire the next generation, to shape life-long learners, to leave their students a little better than when they first entered their classroom.??

And so, with this foundation of care for young people at the core of the vocation, it’s no doubt particularly difficult to witness our young people in distress. So, what can be done to push for better mental health for young Australians??

What needs to change??

Firstly, it’s important to spark conversations about wellbeing and mental health, and to encourage help-seeking behaviours in the classroom. Given that suicide continues to be the leading cause of death for young Australians, paving the way for change in this area is crucial. ?

Further, with young people less likely than any other age group to seek professional help, helping students to think more proactively about looking after their mental wellbeing is a vital step.?

Progress in action?

At Push for Better Foundation, we are passionate about supporting schools to encourage conversation and help de-stigmatise mental illness. Each year in June, we host The Push-Up Challenge, Australia’s biggest mental health and fitness event, propelled by a mission to push for better mental health.?

We proudly facilitate the Student Ambassador Program as part of the event, which gives Year 10, 11 and 12 students an opportunity to lead a push for better mental health at their school. Student Ambassadors encourage fellow students (and teachers!) to get fit, have fun and learn about mental health through participation in The Push-Up Challenge. ?

Student Ambassadors undergo mental health awareness training in the lead- up to the event. This is designed to increase knowledge around mental health, boost confidence in talking about mental health with their peers, and equip students with skills in how to check in and support peers who may be suffering from depression or anxiety. ? ??

The results?

Survey results from participants in the 2022 Student Ambassador Program show that 100% of respondents found the mental health awareness training increased their knowledge of mental health. The same proportion were made more aware of their own mental health and how to practice self-care. Further, 96% said they were now equipped with skills to support someone who may be suffering from anxiety or depression. ?

What students are telling us?

“I loved revving up my school and getting them excited to talk about mental health and do some push-ups!” ?

“It was important for myself to be a part of the challenge because of my personal bereavement by suicide. We were able to make some lasting change in how our school approaches mental health in a respectful, engaging and open way.” ?

“It was honestly the best experience I could ask for. I think the amount of conversations that have been sparked by The Push-Up Challenge is incredible.” ?

Get your school involved?

The Student Ambassador Program is a unique way for schools to encourage mental health conversations and help de-stigmatise mental illness. As a leading mental health student ambassador program in Australia, we're committed to investing in mental health initiatives that can build resilience and result in better long-term outcomes for young people and their mental wellbeing.

Are you ready to push for better mental health? Register your school’s interest in The Push-Up Challenge’s Student Ambassador Program before applications close on February 10, and help your students become a part of the push for better mental health for all young Australians. ?

Register now.