NCJ Number
198446
Journal
Youth Studies Australia Volume: 21 Issue: 2 Dated: June 2002 Pages: 43-51
Date Published
June 2002
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This article discusses “beyondblue,” a program that is aimed at easing the major health burden of depression in Australia.
Abstract
Depression and anxiety are the most frequently reported mental health problems in young people. “Beyondblue” is developing and implementing a youth program that features a multi-level, comprehensive, school-based research project that will include mental health promotion, prevention, and early intervention. The initiative is seeking active participation from school communities, primary health care personnel, and educational and health services across Australia. The aim is to develop, implement, and evaluate a national school-based initiative for the prevention of depression in young people. It is designed to increase community awareness and understanding of depression; reduce the levels of depressive symptoms for young people; promote emotional well-being and social connectedness in school communities; and increase the capacity of school communities to adapt, implement, and evaluate interventions relevant to the prevention of depression. The five elements of the initiative are mental health literacy, whole school approaches, sequential curriculum development, targeting intervention programs, and pathways for care. “Beyondblue,” the Australian Football League (AFL), and Athlete Development Australia (ADA) have formed a partnership to develop a community-based leadership program. The A3 (Aspire, Achieve, Affect) program aims to encourage active participation in communities to prevent depression in young people by connecting them to their communities in meaningful ways. The A3 program is delivered by AFL players that serve as positive role models and help reduce the stigma attached to depression and associated illnesses. Reach Out! is a national initiative that uses the Internet to help young people get through tough times and provides information, assistance, and referrals in a format that appeals to young people. 13 references