Self-harm is the leading cause of death for young people in Australia aged 5-17, half of all mental health problems emerge by age 14, and anxiety depression and suicide are on the rise.

Now with the extraordinary challenges presented to Australian communities in 2020 with drought, floods, bushfire and now covid-19, mental illness is skyrocketing, and children are at an increased risk. According to a new report released by University of Sydney’s Brain and Mind Centre, even in a “best-case scenario”, Australia is forecast to see an increase in suicide deaths of “at least” 13.7% over the next 5 years.