Report_of_Mental_Health_and_Young_People_Conference_2011

The Mental Health and Wellbeing Of Young People 2011, South Bank 1/4/11.   The  two storey Performance Centre at South Bank TAFE was packed to capacity with teachers, health workers, psychologists and social workers. We came together in excited anticipation for what the day was to deliver; and with a shared commitment to working with young people through our various professions and agencies. The polite banter amongst participants was silenced as the proceedings commenced at 0900 sharp.   The audience was captivated by the numerous speakers, who provided genuinely expert lectures on mental health, drug and alcohol use, cyber safety, bullying, resilience, disaster recovery, sexualization of pre-teens and eating disorders as each relate to young people. There was little room for networking with others as participants sat transfixed while each speaker struggled, unsuccessfully on the whole, to conclude their presentations within pre-defined timeframes. The presentations were brilliant, engaging and humorous, subject matter not withstanding. When participants were not fully engaged in proceedings, they ate the gourmet food offerings which covered every possible dietary requirement.   A highlight amongst highlights was our participation en-mass in a session of 'Silent Mindfulness', a meditation method which has achieved amazing results in trials within schools and workplaces. This, like most of the information delivered on the day can be applied within our work; as well as within our teams. I came away from the day refreshed, enthused and positive about the prospect of integrating all that was learned. Few left before the last speaker concluded at 5pm.   I have requested electronic copies of all presentations, which I will distribute. In the meantime here is a paraphrased summary, of the most relevant sections.     Alcohol and Drugs Paul Dillon, Drug and Alcohol Research and Training Australia • 90% of young people are not using Cannabis and 60% of those 12-17 years identify as non-drinkers. Although we see the most vulnerable young people, their drug and alcohol use is not reflective (thankfully) of community trends • However recent statistics show that 40% of 17 years olds have consumed alcohol in the last week and only 30% of 12 year olds have never consumed a full glass of alcohol • Binge drinking can very broadly be defined as 7+ drinks for a male and 5+ drinks for a females, but this can be influenced by individual differences also • The Prefrontal Cortex which governs 'reasoning' is not developed in females until late teens and as late as 24 years in males. Until this development is complete, young people rely on their Amaygala, which allows for 'emotion' based decision making. When the development of Prefrontal Cortex coincides with drinking, it is likely to delay the development of young people's reasoned thinking and prolong impulse (risk taking behaviour or decisions without insight into consequences).   Supporting Young People after Natural Disasters Chris Tandi, Headspace • Natural disasters are unexpected and unusual • Recovery often focusses on adult issues, decisions and practical needs, rather than the   impacts on young people • No 'normal' reaction to traumatic events, however these young people have witnessed things never seen before such as extreme emotional reactions in adults/parents, loss of belongings, loss of community, undermined routines, loss of social supports and amenity; and overall chaos and lack of control over their circumstances • Responses may include anxiety, sadness, fear, worry, helplessness, guilt, shame and isolation. Physically this can manifest via loss of appetite, sleep issues, physical pains and other symptoms • Support for young people post trauma could include making contact, supporting their need to safe and secure, supporting their developing sense of effectiveness in their own actions towards recovery, promotion of connectedness with family, peers, support networks and promotion of hope • Disaster work with young people requires a systematic response. Initial support around basic needs, with psychological support when needed (delivered through services that young people already access) and in consultation with the community • Uncertainty and trauma can be long lasting. 75% of mental health issues are triggered between 12-25 years   Resilience Strategies for Young People Prof Toni Noble, School of Educational Leadership, ANU • Wellbeing is feeling good, functioning well and being resilient • 'Flourishing' represents a high sense of well being and functioning • Resilience is about feeling hopeful even after a setback, as opposed to becoming overwhelmed • Positive emotions, such as feeling happy, proud and satisfied, improves our capacity to learn and problem solve into adulthood • Positive feelings and thinking increases people's abilities to be creative, absorb more complex organizational information and promotes improved negotiation/communication skills • Connectedness is vital for promoting resilience. Links to community, support networks, teams and professional support are crucial • 'Positive Tracking', contributes to morale and resilience. It refers to our focus on the good things around us. Positive Tracking represents our own reflection on good attributes in people, our environment, job or other circumstances • Expressing and feeling gratitude increases positive mood, self-acceptance and positive relationships • Promotion of good feelings, laughing, sharing and cooperation assists with resilience. Examples can be seen in 'Gratitude' and prisoners dancing videos on Utube • Post Traumatic Growth represents the positive changes which result following a major upheaval. These may include stronger appreciation of life, self needs and self care. Through traumatic experiences, young people develop decision making, organizational skills and other transferable experiences which are valuable   Dealing with Difficult Teenagers, Jo Lamble, Psychologist • Young people's self-worth is increased by understanding their thoughts and concerns; highlighting their strengths and achievements but not providing excessive or indiscriminate praise. Young people require Defined/clear goals and expectations which are realistic • Young people's self-worth is enhanced where they can express anger without having their tone judged. Acknowledge frustrations, grievances and/anger and provide channels for their feedback • Young people who have learned how to set goals and work towards meeting these will develop a stronger sense of of self-worth