Building mental health knowledge

READ the Play and Meli are teaming up to deliver youth mental health workshops as part of AFL’s Ahead of the Game Program.

The free workshops are designed for parents and caregivers of junior footballers with a focus on improving mental health literacy and building confidence to support young athletes.

Read the Play general manager Michelle Gerdtz said they understand parents and caregivers are often on the front line when supporting young people’s mental health.

“These workshops are so important because they can help equip adults with the knowledge and confidence to better understand what their children might be going through, especially during adolescence,” she said.

During the program, participants will learn how to understand mental health, build mental fitness and strengthen resilience.

Ms Gerdtz said the sessions are highly practical and aim to empower parents with tools and knowledge.

“Participants will walk away with the ability to identify signs of mental distress, open up conversations with their kids in a supportive way, and understand where and how to seek help if needed,” she said.

“Importantly, they’ll also learn how to distinguish between what’s typical teenage behaviour and what might be a sign of something more serious.

“We hope that participants leave these sessions feeling more confident, better informed, and more connected to their child.”

While it is not expected that participants will leave the sessions with all the answers, it is hoped they will know how to spot the signs, start a conversation and offer support.

All workshops will be held online to offer flexible access for busy families.

Sessions kicked off earlier this month, with the next one taking place on May 26 from 6pm until 7pm. Additional dates are May 29, June 2 and June 5.

To sign up and for more information, head to readtheplay.org.au .