The Federal Government has raised concerns over social media and mental health issues, proposing changes to legislation.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the changes in the Communications Legislation Amendment (Combatting Misinformation and Disinformation) Bill earlier this month.
The Albanese Government will introduce a minimum age for access to social media later this year.
In a media release, Mr Albanese said that social media caused significant harm to young people.
“Australian young people deserve better, and I stand with them and with all Australian parents in protecting our kids,” he said.
“The safety and mental and physical health of our young people Is paramount.
“We’re supporting parents and keeping kids safe by taking this action because enough is enough.”
CEO of Lifeline South Coast, Renee Green said that social media impacts everyone differently, and it is often up to the user to choose how they engage with it.
“It is important to consider how social media use is impacting you individually,” she said.
“There are tools that will help you take a break if social media is negatively impacting your wellbeing.”
Green said that though there is high demand for mental health services, people are always encouraged to continue reaching out for help.
Ms Green noted that mental illness is most prevalent among 18 to 24 year olds.
“University students typically experience a number of stressors that can impact their mental health,” she said.
“This could include university demands, living away from home, and financial stress.”
In Australia, the leading cause of death for young people aged 15 to 44 is suicide.
Ms Green emphasises the importance of having conversations about mental health with friends and Lifeline’s 24/7 hotline.
“On average, nine people across Australia will die every day by suicide,” she said.
“It’s quite a sobering statistic.”
“But people are welcome to contact us at any point that they’re feeling in crisis or feeling distressed,” she said.
Ms Green strongly believes that there are no right or wrongs when it comes to taking care of yourself.
“For some people, that’s having some time out alone. For others, it’s going out with friends,” she said.
“It’s about just trying out those different avenues … and supporting your wellbeing.”
For more information and statistics, click here.
If you feel distressed, please contact the 24/7 support services below.
24-hour UOW Student Wellbeing Support Line:
- Call: 1300 036 149
- Text: 0488 884 164
Lifeline:
- Call 13 11 14
- Visit lifeline.org.au