triple j breakfast hosts tackle online negativity and youth suicide.

From July through October, secondary and tertiary students will have the an opportunity to be in the running to win from a $15,000 prize pool by creating videos with the theme “You are not alone” to show someone they care and support the fight against suicide, which is the biggest killer of young Australians. 

“The online world can be such a damaging place when you’re a teenager and trying to find your identity amidst self-doubt and the struggles of fitting in. We believe these videos will shine a light in the darkness, and provide hope,” says Dr David Horgan, Medical director and psychiatrist of the Australian Suicide Prevention Foundation (ASPF).

Ambassadors for the initiative Liam Stapleton and Ben Harvey said the issue was close to their hearts. 

“The ‘You are not alone’ campaign is extremely important; those four words can save lives. I have loved ones who battle with mental health issues daily. I’ve been lucky enough to have people around me who I trust and I can talk to,” said Liam. 

Ben added, “In my time working in radio I have meet dozens of people who tell me they suffer from mental health issues but hearing a familiar voice in the mornings makes them feel like they have someone and they aren’t so alone.” 

Presented by Village Roadshow, the initiative has been launched at a time when youth suicide has reached a ten-year high in Australia according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. Suicide is responsible for the loss of about eight young lives per week – more than those killed in car crashes. 

The theme “You are not alone” was developed in collaboration with five secondary schools from across the state. 

ASPF is a nationwide not-for-profit focused on providing an outlet for those considering suicide, and their friends and relatives affected by such an event. 

More details on the competition are available at www.youarenotalonecomp.com.au and ASPF at www.aspf.com.au.