Unemployment a serious risk for young people’s mental health

Three of Australia’s leading organisations dealing with mental health and young people have expressed serious concern about the health of youth in the current economic climate.

“The impact on a person’s mental health of losing a job or not being able to find employment cannot be underestimated.  This could produce a generation of young people with a diminished sense of well being,” said Headspace’s CEO Chris Tanti.

On the basis of recent ABS figures and predictions for further economic trouble to come, Beyondblue: the national depression initiative, Headspace and Kids Helpline are making a joint appeal to corporate Australia to help cushion the impact of the economic crisis on young Australians.

“Employers shouldn’t underestimate the difference they can make to young lives. Not only is finding a meaningful job a significant milestone, it is also the time when mental health problems such as depression and anxiety often make their first appearance.  Having productive employment is a protective factor in avoiding or minimising the impact of mental health problems on a young person’s life,” said Beyondblue’s CEO Leonie Young.