Young carers are children or young people up to 25 years of age, who help care in families where someone has an illness, a disability, a mental health issue or who has an alcohol/drug problem.
If you are a young carer you may help care for a parent, a sibling, a child or a grandparent, or even other relatives or a friend
You might help out with cleaning or cooking, getting a relative or a friend about the house, helping with medicines, keeping them safe, showering or dressing them or just watching out to make sure they are okay
A series of 4 videos produced by Merri Health
Young Carers - For Families
Young Carers - For Professionals
Young Carers - For Children
Young Carers - Mum and Me
The Australian BPD Foundation in collaboration with Rose Cuff, parents and staff from The Bouverie Centre have developed a information booklet for children which may be downloaded here
.. a comprehensive website offering information for young people, parents & families and professionals about mental illness. Includes a number of books to read to young children to help explain mental illness.
The Australian Kookaburra Kids Foundation supports kids living in families affected by mental illness. The program provides recreational, educational camps and other activities, giving kids a break, in a fun, positive and safe environment. Kids have the opportunity to meet other kids in similar families and develop new friendships.
...is dedicated to advancing the mental health and emotional wellbeing of Australian infants, children, adolescents and their families.
Site includes a number of helpful fact sheets:
Communicating with your baby during adversity or tough times
Communicating with your toddler during adversity or tough times
Communicating with your primary school age child during adversity or tough times
Communicating with your teenager during adversity or tough times
Also refer to our list of suggested Children's books
Freecall 1800 242 636
The Young carers website offers information and tips on how to look after yourself and the person you are caring for. (NB Not specific for mental health)
1800 55 1800 - telephone support line available 24 hours a day, 7 days per week. For children and young adults up to 25.
Webchat, email counselling and information available on their website
.......is a website for young people and covers a whole range of topics. It includes a forum where you can discuss your issues with other young people. Info, chat, forums, apps and phone support
An informative website about dealing with mental illness run by SANE Australia. It offers lots of information that’s easy to understand as well as some "fun stuff".
........ is not just for kids. This excellent website is all about explaining health issues in a way that is easy to understand.
Separate portals for kids, teens, parents and educators. (USA based)