The Power of Youth ParticipationHow involving young people can address issues of quality and access in mental health service delivery

What we know about youth mental health• Suicide is the leading cause of death for

Australian young people• 1 in 4 young Australians have a mental

health disorder• 80% of young males, 70% of young females

with mental health issues don’t get help

ReachOut.com: A services for young people, by young people• Young people are involved in all aspects of

the ReachOut service• Over 600 young volunteers

How we involve young people

Current youth involvement programs

• Youth ambassadors • Moderators • Producers• Other ways to be involved:

– Casual volunteers– Editorial boards (YEB, SMEB)

The benefits of involving young people • Staff• Service• Young people• Community