Extra services mean more help for young people across Australia.

The Federal Government has revealed its plans to establish 20 extra youth mental health centres across Australia to help in the prevention and early intervention of mental health and drug and alcohol problems among young people.

The centres will be funded through Headspace, Australia’s national youth mental health foundation, which is funded by the Australian Government. The new centres, 14 of which will be located in rural and remote areas, will bring the total number of Headspace centres around Australia to 30.

Headspace aims to provide young people with better mental health support, as well as help for drug and alcohol problems. The centres provide free or low-cost services for young people dealing with mental health or substance use problems by bringing together local GPs, mental health, drug and alcohol, education and vocational support services.

The need for more youth services is particularly urgent in regional and rural Australia, where many communities continue to struggle with the impact of drought and high unemployment.

“Mental health is one of the most important health issues affecting young Australians today,” says Federal Minister for Health, Nicola Roxon. “One in four young people aged 12 to 25 will experience a mental health problem in any 12 month period.”

To find a Headspace centre near you, or for more information on Headspace or mental health and drug and alcohol issues, head to www.headspace.org.au

If you need immediate help, or just need to talk to someone, call Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 or Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14.