Resources

Are you interested in learning more about the research on loneliness and young people? Or are you looking for resources for your personal situation? You can find both here:

Connect Up 2617 Background

Local Statistics on Loneliness, Community, and Wellbeing

Living Well in the ACT Region: The changing wellbeing of Canberrans during 2020 and 2021
Young People and Loneliness: Policy Report (Orygen and Ending Loneliness Together, 2024). Morgan, R., Filia, K., Lim, M.H., & Baker, D.
State of the Nation Report: Social Connection in Australia 2023 (Ending Loneliness Together, 2023).
Inquiry into Loneliness and Social Isolation in the ACT (Report 13, 2024). Legislative Assembly for the Australian Capital Territory Standing Committee on Education and Community Inclusion.

Community Initiatives on Social Connection and Loneliness

Support Services

Speaking with family or friends is a significant first step. If you are in an emergency or crisis, call 000 or go to your local hospital emergency department. If you’re struggling with distressing thoughts or emotions or want to chat anonymously, consider these services:

Lifeline (Crisis Support) Phone: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue (Support Service) Phone: 1300 22 4636
Headspace (Support for young people aged 12–25 and their carers)
Head to Health (Online Mental Health Support)
Suicide Call Back Service Australia (Mental Health Counselling) Phone: 1300 659 467
The Butterfly Foundation (Body image and eating disorder concerns) Phone: 1800 33 4673

For other mental health support services in the ACT, visit MindMap ACT or consult your GP for a referral to a registered mental health professional.

Mental Health First Aid Resources

If you’re looking for training or guidelines on mental health first aid, explore these organizations:

Mental Health First Aid Australia: It offers guides for providing mental health first aid to various groups.
Phoenix Australia Specializes in trauma support and provides access to training programs.