Workshop aims to build resilience

IF you have any teenagers in your home and would like to support them in strengthening their resilience, you are invited to an upcoming virtual workshop.

An expert in youth self-harm prevention is teacher, youth worker and counsellor Garry King and he will lead the session for Golden Plains Shire-based parents on Thursday, 23 February from 6pm to 7pm on Zoom.

“In 2009, Mission Australia led some research, talking to thousands of young people, and 18.8 per cent of young people identified that coping with stress was an issue,” he said.

“We have seen an increase every year from there. By 2017 it had grown to 44.4 per cent.”

Mr King said 2023 is an era where young people have strength in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics, but can lack the ability to lift themselves up in periods of stress and challenge.

“They don’t always know how to get back up when they get knocked down, how to deal with conflict, talk to others, build and maintain relationships, give and take compliments and volunteer,” he said.

“These are all things we need to get by in the world, and we know that the people who have these skills live longer, have better relationships, and work in jobs they’re happier at.

“Resilience is often neglected, but it’s one of the most important parts of our young people being happier human beings for the rest of their lives. It’s harder later in life to go back and learn those skills that are going to hold you in good stead.”

Parents who attend the session will gain an understanding of resilience, or bouncing back, and how to support their young people to be the best versions of themselves with a clear purpose.

Mr King also holds a Masters in suicidology, which inspired him to learn more about resilience.

Visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au/events or contact 5220 7199 or [email protected] for more information