If you could give one piece of advice to a young person struggling with mental health, what would you say?

In honour of Mental Health Month this October, we are looking for your words of advice and support to young people who are having a hard time. The statistics are compelling: 92% of the young people who attend Triple Care Farm programs for treatment report they are struggling with their mental health.

Your messages of advice, encouragement or support can mean the world, by letting young people know they are not alone.

Please note your message may be shared publicly. 

 

Sir David Martin Foundation enthusiastically welcomes the announcement of the 2024 NSW Drug Summit. This pivotal event, scheduled for October in regional NSW and December 4-5 in Sydney, represents a crucial opportunity to address the pressing issue of youth addiction in our communities.

As a family foundation dedicated to helping young people in crisis, we believe this summit is a vital step towards developing more effective, compassionate approaches to youth addiction treatment and prevention. The event’s focus on bringing together policymakers, healthcare professionals, community leaders, and individuals with lived experience is in alignment with our mission to enable best practice models of treatment for youth drug and alcohol addiction.

Sir David Martin Foundation has been at the forefront of supporting youth-specific addiction treatment for over three decades. Our funding of Mission Australia’s Triple Care Farm, which includes residential Withdrawal, residential Rehabilitation, and Aftercare programs, has demonstrated the effectiveness of tailored approaches for young people aged 16-24.

As we approach this important event, Sir David Martin Foundation looks forward to collaborating with other stakeholders to support the development of comprehensive, evidence-based solutions that prioritise the health and well-being of young Australians affected by drug and alcohol addiction.

By working together, we can create lasting positive change and offer safety, hope, and opportunity to vulnerable young people across NSW. This summit is an important step towards that goal.

Sir David Martin Foundation is proud to announce our partnership with the Fair Treatment campaign, joining over 70 organisations in calling for a more compassionate and evidence-based approach to drug policy in Australia.

As a foundation dedicated to helping young people experiencing drug and alcohol addiction, we recognise the critical need for reform in how our society addresses substance use issues. The Fair Treatment campaign, led by the Uniting Church and Uniting, aligns closely with our vision of safety, hope, and opportunity for vulnerable young Australians.

By joining Fair Treatment, we are advocating for two key reforms:

  1. Law reform for a primary health-response to personal possession of currently illicit drugs or “decriminalisation” and;
  2. More funding for alcohol and other drug treatment services.

These evidence-based policy changes have the potential to significantly reduce the harm caused by current punitive approaches while expanding access to life-saving treatment and support services for those struggling with addiction.

Our experience funding youth-specific addiction treatment programs has shown us the transformative power of compassionate, health-focused interventions. We believe that by treating drug use as a health issue rather than a criminal one, we can better support young people on their journey to recovery and reduce the devastating cycle of addiction and incarceration.

Sir David Martin Foundation is committed to destigmatising youth addiction and breaking down barriers that prevent young people from seeking help. Our participation in the Fair Treatment campaign represents another step forward in our advocacy efforts to create lasting positive change for vulnerable youth across Australia.

We look forward to collaborating with our fellow campaign partners to advance these crucial reforms and build a more just and effective approach to drug policy in our nation.

In light of the recent World Overdose Awareness Day, Penington Institute has released Australia’s Annual Overdose Report which has brought attention to the devastating and ever-growing overdose crisis in Australia. The report revealed a dire milestone—42,000 overdose deaths since 2000, with the numbers rising year by year . The report also revealed that in recent years unintentional drug induced deaths increased 25% for those ages 0-19 years . While we reflect on these figures it is important to remember that each statistic represents a person with unique lived experience and whose loss of life will have a lasting impact on the loved ones they left behind.

At Sir David Martin Foundation, we are acutely aware of how addiction can overwhelm lives, particularly among young Australians. Programs like Triple Care Farm, address the root causes of addiction and provide the treatment and support young people need to rebuild their futures. With over 70% of overdose deaths involving multiple substances, it is vital that those on their recovery journey have access to ongoing support . Triple Care Farm’s holistic approach to recovery provides a safe space for young people to withdraw, rehabilitate and transition back into the community through Aftercare. This ensures young people have the opportunity to get well and stay well.   

Unintentional drug-induced deaths are not evenly distributed throughout our communities as Australia’s most vulnerable people are often overrepresented year after year. The Penington report reveals how Indigenous Australians rate of unintentional drug-induced deaths was 23.3 per 100,000 population, compared with 6.1 for non-Indigenous people . The report also highlights the growing issue of overdose in regional and rural communities, where access to services and support is more limited. In recent years these regions now report a higher rate of drug induced deaths than capital cities, reflecting a critical gap in health care and addiction services .

The findings of the Penington Institute report serve as a stark reminder of the importance of continuing support of those living with addiction and expanding access to life-saving services. The release of this report on World Overdose Day encourages us to remember those who have lost their lives and to reaffirm our commitment to funding best practice models of treatment for youth addiction and preventing future overdose deaths.
 

References

  1. Penington Institute (2024). Australia’s Annual Overdose Report 2024. Melbourne: Penington Institute, 3
  2. https://www.penington.org.au/australias-annual-overdose-report-2024/
  3. Penington Institute (2024). Australia’s Annual Overdose Report 2024. Melbourne: Penington Institute, 54
  4. Penington Institute (2024). Australia’s Annual Overdose Report 2024. Melbourne: Penington Institute, 3
  5. Penington Institute (2024). Australia’s Annual Overdose Report 2024. Melbourne: Penington Institute, 3

 

When people recovering from addiction leave residential treatment, finding a safe and secure place to live is crucial. This can be difficult; there is a link between homelessness and harmful substance use, and many people with substance use problems do not have a stable living environment to return to (1).

For young people, especially those with mental health concerns, finding a stable home can be challenging. This can be an obstacle to staying well after treatment. The longer a person is homeless, the more likely they are to use drugs or consume alcohol at risky levels (1).

This is one of the benefits of Aftercare, a program that provides young people with support after they leave residential rehabilitation. Aftercare Workers help young people to find safe housing that will enable them to have a ‘liveable life’ in the long term. 

 

Housing is essential for a liveable life 

One way of describing the goal of helping young people with substance use problems is that of providing them what they need for a ‘liveable life’ (2). This means they are able to live, work, and participate in everyday life the way they would like to.  

Having a home is essential for young people to take part in everyday life. For people recovering from addiction, finding somewhere new can be important to their recovery, particularly if their previous living situation has been unstable.  

Aftercare Workers can provide formal support with finding somewhere to live, but some of the most invaluable support is the help with the informal parts of housing. For example, the skills to maintain relationships with family, flatmates and landlords are critical. Aftercare Workers can help to develop these skills, and give advice to young people as they navigate a new environment with new people.  

Secure, safe and affordable housing enhances recovery for people with substance use problems, and protects against relapse, re-hospitalisation and homelessness (2). It is a vital part of a smooth path to recovery.  

 

References 

  1. adf.org.au/insights/alcohol-and-other-drug-use-and-homelessness/  
  1. www.ahuri.edu.au/sites/default/files/migration/documents/AHURI-Final-Report-359-Leaving-rehab-enhancing-transitions-into-stable-housing.pdf 

 

*Stock image used

In Australia alone, nearly 10 million people have been affected by suicide, which equates to almost half of our nation.

World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD), held annually on 10 September,  unites over 60 countries to promote stigma reduction, advocate for policy change, encourage seeking help, and honour the memories of those lost to suicide, those who have survived suicide attempts, and those who bear the weight of grief. 

The theme for World Suicide Prevention Day 2024 is ‘We all have a part to play’, in recognition of the fact that we can all champion hope and take meaningful action to save lives.

In honour of this day, we aim to understand and address the intricate connection between mental health and substance use, two critical factors that can significantly impact an individual’s risk of suicide.

Substance Use and Suicide among Youth

Among youth aged 15–19 years old, suicide ranks in the top five causes of death worldwide. Substance use is a significant risk factor for suicidal ideation, attempted suicide and completed suicide.

One of the most alarming aspects of the relationship between mental health, substance use, and suicide is the significantly elevated risk it poses to affected individuals. While suicide is often viewed primarily as a mental health issue, research has shown that substance use and substance use disorders play a substantial role in suicidal behaviour.

Recent findings indicate that individuals with specific substance use disorders face dramatically increased odds of suicide:

These statistics highlight the complex interplay between substance use and suicide risk. It’s essential to recognise that suicide prevention efforts must not only address mental health but also integrate substance use treatment and support. Understanding the gravity of this issue demonstrates the urgent need for early intervention, support, and effective treatment strategies.

Examples of potential contributing risk and protective factors for suicide and suicidal behaviours

Risk factors:

Protective Factors

Recognising the signs

Recognising the signs of suicidal thoughts is crucial for providing timely help and support. These signs may include:

If you observe any of these signs in yourself or someone you care about, it’s essential to take them seriously and seek help immediately. Remember that reaching out to offer support and listening without judgment can make a significant difference in someone’s life.

Suicide can affect every one of us. By raising awareness, reducing the stigma and encouraging action we can help to reduce the instances of suicide around the world.

Urgent help

If you need urgent help right now, please call 000 or contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 for immediate 24/7 crisis support.

The Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467 offers 24/7 free counselling and support for people at risk of suicide.

 

For more resources on youth drug and alcohol support, check out our find help page.References:

https://www.suicidepreventionaust.org/world-suicide-prevention-day/

World Health Organization. (2014). WHO Mortality Database. Geneva, Switzerland: Author.

Wilcox, H. C., Conner, K. R., & Caine, E. D. (2004). Association of alcohol and drug use disorders and completed suicide: an empirical review of cohort studies. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 76, S11–S19.

World Health Organization. (2014). Preventing suicide: a global imperative: Geneva, Switzerland: Author

Anna Beaumont, Sir David and Lady Martin’s daughter, worked for the Foundation from 2011 until her retirement in 2023. Here, she looks back on how it has grown since its establishment after her father’s passing in 1990.

When our father died on August 10th, 1990, the bottom dropped out of our world. He alone knew how very sick he was, but we desperately hoped we’d have a few more months together, after he’d stepped down from the Vice Regal role.

The establishment of Sir David Martin Foundation and the subsequent outpouring of grief and generosity took us all by surprise, and provided Mum with a welcome distraction.

In the years that followed, the Foundation team grew in number and in 2011, I joined as Fundraising Coordinator. I knew very little about fundraising!

Luckily, my role was more about connecting with all our lovely donors and supporters – many of whom had known Dad. They shared some wonderful stories and so much loyal commitment.

In the years I worked in the team, I visited donors at home, wrote funding applications, showed people around Triple Care Farm, abseiled down the AMP building, then on 1 Market Street (several times), undertook the Kokoda Track, hosted morning teas, helped set up events, attended Graduation at the farm, and asked donors to support our work through gifts and by leaving a bequest.

It was a happy, busy, challenging, fun and rewarding 12 years. I loved meeting the young people in the programs and was always impressed by their dedication and strength.

The best part was knowing that I was keeping Dad’s vision alive, of safety, hope and opportunity for young people in crisis. He would be so proud of the Foundation and the work that continues to save young lives. He’d be thrilled that Mum has been involved so loyally for so many years.

I’m honoured to now be on the Board of Martin Youth Foundation and I’m looking forward to what comes next!

Lucy Stronach, a member of our Youth Advisory Group, was awarded the 2024 Young Achiever of the Year Award at the 7 News Young Achiever Awards WA. At the ceremony she also won the Masonic Care Community Service and Volunteering Award.  

Lucy received these awards in recognition of her work to further the rights of young people, women, and people with disabilities, as well as justice and community advocacy. At age 28, she already has a decade of experience working and volunteering in human rights and justice roles.  

Currently, Lucy is a Youth Justice Adviser for the Minderoo Foundation. She has previously acted as the Australian youth representative to the United Nations, and she was also the inaugural Chair of Sir David Martin Foundation’s Youth Advisory Group, made up of young people dedicated to ensuring a strong youth voice guides our efforts to help young people in crisis. Lucy is still a valued and active member of the Youth Advisory Group. 

Lucy says, “Despite a lot of hard work, I must acknowledge how privileged I’ve been to forge a sustainable and meaningful career in social justice. Too many people aren’t afforded the same opportunities, and many of the systems and structures we have in place continue to create inequality, injustice, and inaccessibility. I’m committed to using this platform to further my advocacy efforts in the rights of women, young people, and people with disabilities.” 

On behalf of everyone at Sir David Martin Foundation, we are so proud of Lucy and her achievements. Her passion and dedication is invaluable the work we do to support young people in crisis, and she is truly deserving of this honour.  

Learn more about Lucy and our Youth Advisory Group: link 

 

References 

thewest.com.au/news/wa/wa-young-achiever-awards-youth-justice-advocate-lucy-stronach-named-overall-winner-c-14933885

 

 

Yaama (hello), my name is Kacie and I am a member of the Martin Youth Foundation’s Youth Advisory Group.

While June is Pride Month, pride can be, and is, celebrated year-round within the community. Pride in every one of our stories and experiences is what strengthens our community. Being able to embrace oneself fully, and having a receptive and supportive community who also accepts and embraces you, is the key to walking in one’s truth. Therefore, it is our job as a society to foster environments where our young people: feel safe and secure, are free to express themselves, feel confident and self-assured, and are not judged. We shape our young people, so let us give them the tools to be PROUD.

Pride Month is not just a time for celebration, but also commemoration and veneration of those LGBTQIA+ people who came before us and fought for improved visibility, rights, and pushed back against discrimination. It is also a time to shed a light on the work that still must be done until equity and equality are reached. Pride, to me, is the culmination of celebration of self and of the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as an emotional testament to our strength, resilience, and fortitude. Being proud is the ultimate gift to self, and to others.

With all this being said, for me it is important to identify my positionality within the LGBTQIA+ community. I am cis, I am currently in a heterosexual relationship, and I am Aboriginal. So, the way in which I experience my queerness and the LGBTQIA+ community is intersectional, and may look very different to the experiences of others in the community. I say all this as a reminder that the LGBTQIA+ community is full of unique stories, like my own, and that is why celebrating Pride is so important.

Stigma is such an important factor in treating harmful substance use – it affects how willing people are to seek help, and whether their communities accept them. The World Health Organisation ranks substance dependence as the most stigmatised health condition globally, and this is affected by the way people experiencing addiction are represented in the media. 

Representatives of Sir David Martin Foundation attended the seminar ‘Spotlight on media representation and substance abuse stigma’, held by the University of New South Wales. The two speakers, Harry Sumnall and Leah McLeod, spoke about how stigma around substance misuse affects the lives of people experiencing addiction, and how we can change that.  

At its core, stigma is related to power, where people who are stigmatised are dehumanised by a more powerful group. One of the reasons stigma towards people with drug use problems is so prevalent in our society is because of a lack of first-hand experience that most people have with those experiencing addiction. This means that media shapes many people’s perceptions of drug-related issues. Stereotypical depictions in TV shows and movies reinforce negative attitudes and perpetuate harmful myths about addiction. 

Stigma around drug use is not one size fits all. A person’s age, gender, and the type of drug they use can all affect the amount of sympathy they receive. This can prevent people who are experiencing addiction from reaching out for help when they need it, for fear of judgement – and have very real consequences for their health and quality of life. 

However, despite negative stigma, it is important that we do not underestimate the compassion and intelligence of the wider community. When people see more multidimensional depictions of people with substance use problems, negative perceptions can and do change.  

We can all play a role in reducing addiction stigma. Here are some ways to get involved: 

By working together, we a more welcoming society where people feel empowered to seek the help they need without fear of stigma or shame. 

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