A new mental health centre has been hailed as a vital service for youths on the Sunshine Coast.
headspace Caloundra, which opened in December, offers improved access to mental health and wellbeing support for people aged 12 to 25.
The centre, at 3A/67 Bowman Road, has already connected with young people more than 150 times through services and support.
It is operated by Lives Lived Well, with funding provided by the federal government and administered by the local health network Country to Coast QLD.
A community opening event was held late last month to recognise the collaborative effort behind the centre’s establishment and the services it offers.
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The team at headspace Caloundra was joined by staff from headspace, youth advisory committee members, consortium and funding partners, and community stakeholders. The event included tours of the centre, as well as cake, pizza and a jelly decorating station.
Lives Lived Well CEO Mitchell Giles said the event acknowledged the collective effort that made the new service possible.
“We are proud to provide a dedicated space where young people can access free and confidential support, helping them navigate life’s challenges and take positive steps towards their wellbeing,” he said.
“Since we opened our doors in December, referrals have been growing steadily, demonstrating there is the need for ongoing youth-specific mental health services in the area.”
headspace CEO Jason Trethowan emphasised the impact that centres like headspace Caloundra can have.
“We know that life can be challenging for young people, and having a welcoming, youth-friendly space like headspace Caloundra means they have somewhere to turn when they need help,” he said.
“At headspace, we know that getting support early can make a real difference in a young person’s life.
“This centre will play a crucial role in ensuring that young people in Caloundra can access free and confidential mental health support when they need it, without barriers.
“We encourage any young person who may be going through a tough time to reach out – headspace is here for you.”
headspace Caloundra joins headspace Maroochydore and headspace Gympie in the region.
Country to Coast QLD chief executive Julie Sturgess said the new centre would play an important role in supporting young people to seek help early, closer to home.
“When young people have access to the right support early on, it can make a real difference to their mental health and wellbeing,” she said.
“headspace Caloundra provides a safe and welcoming environment where young people can walk in, ask for help, and connect with the services they need, without the barrier of needing a referral.”
Federal Member for Fisher Andrew Wallace said the community event marked a milestone for the mental health care of young people living in the south of the Sunshine Coast.
“The opening of headspace Caloundra is a significant step forward in addressing the mental health needs of young Australians,” he said.
“I encourage all young people in the region to take advantage of these new services and to prioritise their mental wellbeing.”
Young people aged 12 to 25 can access headspace Caloundra Monday to Friday by calling 5222 4009, attending the centre in person or referring via the website.
