Depression and anxiety are the most common mental health problems experienced by young people, yet many find it hard to tell anyone what they are going through.  Research has shown that when struggling with a major problem or issue, young people are more likely to turn to one of their friends rather than an adult for support.

Stride's Supportive Friends workshops educate students on how to recognise, reach out and support their fellow students who are exhibiting signs of isolation, loneliness, anger and depression.

HOW SUPPORTIVE FRIENDS WORKS:

Supportive Friends has been designed as an anti depression and suicide prevention program where older students, typically year 10-12, are trained to support and assist students who confide in them.

Students choosing to be Supportive Friends in their school are trained in basic skills which help them to recognise early warning signs of depression such as loneliness, isolation or anger and to offer an open and caring dialogue with troubled students.  This gives young people and avenue to express their feelings to someone they feel safe with.  The Supportive Friend is not expected to be a counsellor.  There is a strong emphasis on how to refer serious problems on to an adult and to encourage the student experiencing difficulties to seek further professional assistance.

ABOUT THE TRAINING:

The one day workshop for senior students addresses the psychological dimensions of anxiety, depression, suicide, resilience, happiness and fulfillment.  The training involves practical exercises which encourage interactive discussion and cooperative group learning activities.

Support Friends learn:  How to make connections with other students | how to listen and respond appropriately | why it is important to understand other people's feelings | how to build long lasting trust | how to handle the Big Issues when they arrive | how to bounce back from set backs | when it's necessary to get an adult's help.

Workshop prices Calendar of Professional Development Workshops To enquire about Stride delivering Supportive Friends direct to your students contact us, or fill in our online workshop request form or fill in our workshop request form. Supportive Friend Badges Available