DUAL, a global specialist underwriting agency, is hosting a free mental health webinar on Tuesday, March 18. This event, offered by the firm’s Australia and New Zealand operation, marks a significant step in expanding access to mental health resources. While the company has long been focused on promoting mental well-being, this is the first time the webinar has been opened to people outside the insurance industry. So far, approximately 2,000 people have already signed up to participate.
Webinar Topic: Talking Mental Health with Young People
The focus of the panel session and Q&A, titled “Talking Mental Health: A Guide to Open Conversations with Young People,” is designed to provide guidance to those who want to support young people in managing their mental health. With youth suicide rates remaining a critical concern, especially as suicide continues to be the leading cause of death for people aged 15-44, this webinar aims to equip participants with the tools to engage in meaningful and supportive conversations.
Panelists and Speakers
The session will feature a range of expert voices in the mental health field:
Dr. Lyndsay Brown, a research officer at the Black Dog Institute, will offer her expertise. This renowned medical research institute specializes in mental health policy, advocacy, and research aimed at improving mental health outcomes.
Nic Newling, a mental health speaker with The Champions, an organization focused on improving mental health by promoting open conversations and sharing lived experiences.
Damien Coates, the CEO of DUAL ANZ, will also speak. Coates is a passionate advocate for mental health and has been outspoken about his personal struggles with depression. Having shared his story with over 10,000 people, he is particularly keen on helping others understand how to talk to young people about mental health. He has shared that one of the most common questions he gets is “How do I talk to young people about mental health?”
Key Takeaways: Listening Without Judgment
Coates emphasizes the importance of listening without judgment and refraining from trying to “fix” the issue when talking to young people about mental health. According to Coates, providing a safe, non-judgmental space for young people to express their emotions can be a significant first step in offering support. He advocates for empathetic engagement, as being heard can be crucial to alleviating feelings of isolation and distress.
Why This Webinar Matters
The significance of this webinar is immense, as it provides vital mental health guidance to individuals who want to help but may feel unsure or ill-equipped to approach sensitive topics. The growing recognition of mental health challenges among youth makes these kinds of conversations even more necessary, and offering accessible resources like this webinar is crucial in addressing these issues at the community level.
In addition to providing useful tools and advice, this initiative by DUAL underscores the importance of opening up conversations around mental health and fostering a culture of support and understanding, particularly when it comes to youth well-being.
Conclusion
The DUAL webinar on mental health presents a unique opportunity to learn from experts and advocates in the field. By offering guidance on how to navigate conversations with young people, the event will contribute to fostering a more supportive environment for mental health and well-being. Whether you are a parent, educator, or someone who works with young people, this session promises to provide valuable insight into how to engage and support those who may be struggling with mental health challenges.
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