YEAR 9 YAM PROGRAM
Over the last few weeks, Year 9 have participated in the Youth Aware of Mental Health (YAM) program which is an evidence-based program developed to promote mental health, resilience and help-seeking amongst young people.
Did you know??
- In Australia, 70% of mental illness and suicidal behaviours begin between the ages 12-25 years?
- Almost 2 in 5 people aged 16-24 yrs experienced a mental disorder in 2020-2021?
- Anxiety disorders were the most common among young people?
The last few years have been challenging for all John Therry students with remote learning, the cancellation of many events and the ongoing changes that the teenage years bring. In this program, students have had the opportunity to discuss common problems that they may face and how they can make them feel. They have learnt about different experiences and events and had the opportunity to think about how they can help themselves and others when coming across similar challenges. Our cohort are able to recognise when they need support and what they can do in specific situations if they were to arise.
Hear from some of our students about their experience with the YAM program.
“During the Youth Aware of Mental Health (YAM) Program, we explored the ideas of expressing feelings, giving advice, listening to others, and coping strategies, as well as different role-playing scenarios that outlook mental challenges. We discussed mental health and how there are a variety of ways to manage it. Throughout this experience, we were able to discuss the ways in which we can comfort those going through difficult times, “Sometimes the best thing you can do is just listen”. YAM has offered ways for teenagers to get in contact with people, guiding them along their personal mental health journey.” - Laura and Georgia
“It was a lot more interactive than I thought it would be and it was really fun. We got to role play and get to know each other” - Alexander
“I liked being open to share your own opinions and being able to learn from it” - Maximo
I hope that this experience can help break down the stigma around mental health and we can work together as a support network for our JTCC Community. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. If you or someone in your life needs help or advice, there are several organisations that provide support:
Kids Helpline - 1800 55 1800 Lifeline - 13 11 14
kidshelpline.com.au lifeline.org.au
Headspace - 4220 7660 ReachOut - 1800 011 511
headspace.org.au reachout.com
As I once heard, “It is health that is real wealth and not pieces of gold and silver”.
Mr McGrath
Year 9 Wellbeing Coordinator
