Young people in the Eurobodalla Shire now have a dedicated space for confidential and free mental health services after the new headspace centre in Clyde Street was officially opened last week.
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A reference group made up of young headspace members helped with the centre design to ensure it was a place they wanted to use for years to come and the result was a bright, colourful and inviting space.
Each year, headspace helps thousands of young people aged 12 to 25 access vital support through physical centres as well as online and phone counselling services.
Following the black summer bushfires, an interim on-the-ground service was set up in Batemans Bay to help assist young people struggling in the aftermath.
READ MORE: headspace offers support for young people
headspace National chief executive officer Jason Trethowan said community fundraising around Australia helped establish the service and government funding contributed to the building.
"Having a service like headspace reduces the stigma of going to seek help and provides a safe place for young people to have a yarn," he said.
"The centre heavily influenced by the youth, they were the designers of how it should look and feel, and I won't forget the beaming smiles of the young people who attended the opening because they know their needs have been listened to."
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In a joyful celebration of the official opening, Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips said the building had been highly anticipated by the community.
"A few years ago, every conversation I had was about how we needed more mental health services for our young people in the Eurobodalla Shire, and I've been beating that drum," she said.
"An investment in our young people is an investment in our future."
Mr Trethowan said dedicated headspace practitioners helped young people find purpose in their lives, particularly in regards to work and study paths.
"The big message is that it's more than just the centre itself, it's about connecting young people with the youth services in their region," he said.
"In rural areas it can be 1 in 3 young people between 17 and 25 who are not engaged in work or study, so we can help them find employment and opportunities for further study if they would like."
The platform e-headspace, a national online and phone support service staffed by experienced youth mental health professionals, runs until 1am every day and provides and opportunity for young people to seek support wherever they live.
"It was particularly moving when the young person said Batemans Bay catered for a retirement population and a tourist population but what young people wanted was a headspace, and we're so proud that we've been able to provide that," Mr Trethowan said.