Headspace Geraldton program aims to do Wonders for youth employment

Headspace Geraldton has launched a new program which aims to give young people dealing with mental health issues a leg up when it comes to finding a job. Work Wonders is a free program offering long-term support to 15 to 25-year-olds who are struggling to navigate the often convoluted job market. Headspace Geraldton manager Fiona Stewart said stable employment could have a huge impact on a young person’s mental wellbeing. “All of the data shows that the greatest thing you can do for a young person with mental health is find them a job,” she said. “It’s not mental health counselling it’s actually finding a job. It changes people’s lives — self-esteem, purpose, autonomy, next stage of life.” Funded by the Federal Government through a three-year grant, Headspace’s Claire Tutton said the program helped young people gain some of the job skills we take for granted. “Sometimes they are too scared to ask someone how to do a resume and they need a parent-type figure to help out,” she said. “They might struggle once they are in a job because of their mental health issues. “Work Wonders is there for them to call and check in on.” Ms Stewart said it was the first time Headspace had offered a program linking mental health treatment with employment opportunities. “It’s for young people whose mental health is a barrier to going out and finding work themselves,” she said. “That’s the bonus for employers. They can take a chance on taking a young person and know the Work Wonders person is there to support in any way. “Young people these days are a lot better at saying they have a mental health issue or need support. “Their language is a little more robust than my generation. But there is still stigma. “The longer a young person remains unemployed and not learning, that gap impacts the rest of their lives.”