Loneliness is the Hidden Crisis
Loneliness is one of the strongest predictors of mental illness, and this needs to be addressed in our mental health system. Today, a young person feeling lonely often means a disconnection from self: anxiety about the future, potentially struggling with sleep, feeling tired, low in mood, or withdrawing from others.
These look like symptoms of mental illness – but they are often also just the everyday struggles of life. In this instance, what they need is care that helps them feel connected to who they are (inner-connection), and supported in the things they do. This is the power of relational care. But today, they are only supported by a medicalised model.
What are we fighting for
Parallel Model of Mental Healthcare
What difference would it make?
A Parallel Model of Care proposes two pathways working side by side. Clinical care will always be vital, but preventative, relational care is just as critical. Our petition asks the government to fund a pilot to substantiate this model. The propose model would allow:
More timely, tailored support. The right support at the right time.
Relieving pressure on an overburdened mental health system.
Shortened wait times for care - currently, the wait time to see a psychologist is 3 months.
By supporting it, you can help young people move from loneliness to connection, and from struggling to thriving.
Our Journey so far
Productivity Commission
We presented Highway's insights on the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement to the commission gathered over the past 5 years. During this time we have worked with over 3000 young people, utilising our innovate peer to peer connection model.
Our Petition & Government Advocacy
Our direct call to action for a Social Prescription Pilot was formalized through Petition EN7655.
This petition gained significant public support, achieving over 500 signatures from individuals who believe in our peer-to-peer connection model as a vital solution for youth loneliness and the mental health "missing middle."
Sign the Manifesto & spread the word
How you can help?
Sign the Official Manifesto
By supporting it, you can help young people move from from struggling to thriving.
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