We know how important friends can be
Friends are awesome. But sometimes they make us worried and it’s hard to know what to say or do.
Our mission
We want to empower young people to have the confidence to know what to do and say in these situations. We are passionate about involving young people to be part of the solution and included them in the design and evaluation of this program. We all know someone who might have been struggling at some point. Equip yourself with the tools and strategies to know what to do next time.
Development
In 2020, researchers at The University of Sydney have developed a new program in the form of an online lesson + mobile app to help young people better support their friends when their friends may be facing tough times (for example, times when young people notice that a friend may be feeling down, stressed out, not themselves or might be trying alcohol or other drugs). In 2021, a trial of the program found the program to be effective in reducing symptoms of depression among Australian young people. Click here to find out more.
Newest updates
The program has been expanded to include a new 4-lesson online module. The online module is based on realistic, cartoon-based storyline. It portrays a group of teenagers navigating mental health and substance use challenges with the support from peers, family, and other support networks. Through the program, students learn to identify symptoms of mental health and substance use challenges in peers and develop practical skills to navigate tricky conversations (e.g., active listening), checking in, accessing support options, as well as self-care.
The online program is designed to be delivered in a classroom setting (along with lesson activities). Access to the smartphone support tool is also be provided to help support students outside of school.
If you want to hear about the program or have any questions, get in touch!
