A student video competition is tackling isolation and negativity.
Entries are open for the Australian Suicide Prevention Foundation (ASPF) initiative.
Entrants can work individually or in groups to create videos with the theme ‘you are not alone’.
Students from five secondary schools helped to decide the theme, and felt it would allow them to show others they cared and support the fight against suicide – which is the biggest killer of young Australians.
ASPF medical director and psychiatrist, Dr David Horgan, said videos created by young people for young people had the potential to cut through in circumstances where concerned parents and teachers struggled.
“The online world can be such a damaging place when you’re a teenager and trying to find your identity amidst self-doubt and the struggles of fitting in,” he said.
“We believe these videos will shine a light in the darkness, and provide hope.”
Youth suicide has reached a 10-year high in Australia according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. Suicide is responsible for the loss of about eight young lives each week – more than those killed in car crashes.
Entries close on 9 October. Visit www.youarenotalonecomp.com.au for more information.
