Warning: This episode discusses abuse, mental illness and suicide.
Abbie* can’t live with her mum because of abuse in the household. Chris says he was rejected when he came out as trans. Maddison’s* mother is too damaged to care for her.
Many young people are affected by problems stemming from broken homes, domestic violence and other traumatic events.
Long-term, there is a strong relationship between trauma and poor mental health but young people can bounce back with the right support.
National charity Youth Insearch uses a peer support model to help young people like Abbie, Chris and Maddison rebuild their lives.
Jewel and Sophie attend a three-day camp where young people draw on their own experiences of pain, hurt and triumph over adversity to help others, making them realise they are not alone.
*Name has been changed
If you are suffering, support is available. Call Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636, Head to Health on 1800 595 212 or visit beyondblue.org.au. Crisis support is available 24/7 at Lifeline, call 13 11 14 or text 0477 131 114.
You can also contact Headspace for support at headspace.org.au or on 1800 650 890, as well as Kids Helpline at kidshelpline.com.au or on 1800 55 1800.
Get in touch! If you have a question about mental health you'd like answered, leave us a voicemail on +61 2 9906 9915 or email us at enoughpodcast@theage.com.au or enoughpodcast@smh.com.a
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Reporters: Jewel Topsfield and Sophie Aubrey
Producer: Margaret Gordon
Sound mix: Kyle Hopkins
Production assistance: Julia Carr-Catzel, Tammy Mills
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Executive producer of audio: Nathanael Cooper
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