With the Victorian election approaching, many young people across the state are navigating tricky political discussions with their friends, families and in their online worlds too.
Discussing politics is an important part of the lead up to elections, however debates about the issues and policies can become overwhelming and stressful for young people, for example if they are voting for the first time.
Youth mental health service ReachOut is providing support via a practical guide to discussing politics with friends and family, including tips for young people.
Interviews
ReachOut’s Annie Wylie, Acting Head of Service, is available for interview on:
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how young people might be feeling in the lead up to the Victorian election
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practical tips for young people
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how parents and carers can provide support right now
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about the free mental health support that young people can access via ReachOut
Quote
To be attributed to ReachOut’s Acting Head of Service, Annie Wylie:
“In the lead up to an election, most of us find ourselves talking about politics more than ever. Those conversations can be positive and hopeful, however young people can also feel unheard, misunderstood and sometimes powerless.
“Political conversations with friends, family and online that cause conflict can have impacts on a young person’s mood, their wellbeing and their mental health.
“In the lead up to the Victorian election, ReachOut is providing practical tips for young people on how they can discuss politics with friends and family. We also have a free peer support service PeerChat where young people can connect with peer workers with their own lived experiences,” she said.
For information and support young people can visit ReachOut.com and parents and carers can visit ReachOut.com/Parents.
ENDS
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About us:
About ReachOut
ReachOut is the leading online mental health service in Australia supporting young people during tough times.
ReachOut helps young people feel better about today and the future, no matter what challenge they’re facing. They provide a safe place where young people can openly express themselves, explore what’s happening in their lives, connect with people who understand their situation, and find the resources to help them manage their challenges now and in the future.
Anonymous, free and 100% online, ReachOut has been designed specifically for – and with – young people. From one-to-one support from experienced peer workers, to tips, stories and resources, ReachOut offers a wide range of support options that allow young people to engage in the ways they want to, when they want to, and has been doing so for more than 20 years.
And, ReachOut Parents and ReachOut Schools provide valuable information, resources and advice to help parents, carers and educators to better understand the young people in their lives and to play an active role in their wellbeing.
Socials
Instagram & TikTok: @reachout_aus
Instagram Parents: @reachout_parents
LinkedIn: @ReachOut Australia
Facebook: @ReachOutAus
Contact details:
Tessa Mithieux - Senior Media Manager, ReachOut
[email protected] / 0411 708 587
