b kinder foundation : mental health statistics

mental health statistics

1 in 4 secondary students and 1 in 7 primary school students now has a mental health condition - ultimately leading to psychological problems in their adult life.
Source: Mission Australia

“Suicide is the leading cause of death among young Australians. About 350 young people aged 15–24 take their own lives every year – more than die on the roads. For every youth suicide, there are 100 to 200 more attempts.” (70,000 attempts each year)
Source: Heathdirect.gov.au

Approximately one in four Year 4 to Year 9 Australian students (27%) reported being bullied every few weeks or more often (considered to be frequent)
Source: national study in 2009.

4 in 10 students are concerned about coping with stress, body image, school or study problems.
Source: Mission Australia

Anxiety levels have increased significantly in the last decade with suicide now being the single largest killer of Australian youth. Source: Mission Australia

"Behavioural issues, particularly those that begin in early childhood, are among the strongest predictors or serious health and social problems in adulthood."
Mental Health Commission of New South Wales

negativity

The alarming statistics on bullying and mental health issues are generating increasing community concern for the mental health and well-being of our children and young people.

Anxiety levels have increased significantly and mental health issues are leading to suicide, the biggest killer of our Australian youth. Children today are inundated with information on topics like anxiety, depression, bullying, suicide, self-harm, and other mental health issues. There is a glaring absence of positive messages.

An article from the Murdoch Children's Research Institute states that "With about 50% of mental health disorders beginning before the age of 14 years, prevention and early intervention are paramount if we want to reduce a lifetime prevalence of mental health disorders and allow children to live their best possible lives".

Science shows that acts of kindness and compassion increase wellbeing and improve self-esteem. People’s actions do matter and we each have the power to make a difference.

bullying

Bullying can be physical, verbal or social.

Data from the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (LSAC) in 2016 shows that 7 in 10 children aged 12–13 experienced at least 1 bullying-like behaviour within a year. According to the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) 2015, 1 in 5 Year 4 students experience bullying on a weekly basis.

Data from LSAC in 2016 found that almost half (46%) of children aged 12–13 who experienced at least 1 bullying-like behaviour within a year also used bullying-like behaviours against another child. Frequent school bullying was highest among Year 5 (32%) and Year 8 (29%) students.

testimonials

"The influence and lasting impressions that Billie has left for our future generations can only be described as an inheritance of blessings for all children."

Amanda Camm, Whitsundays MP

"I have searched for a wellbeing program that not only serves to educate our students, but inspires them to take action, to flourish and to use their voice for good. Across the globe we are witnessing an ever-increasing amount of anxiety, online bullying, depression, helplessness and dysregulation. We need to empower children with strategies to help them develop an enriched sense of wellbeing, belonging and self-esteem."

Nicole Gruman, Vice Principal, Moriah College

"They are of great help in initiating discussion surrounding emotions that can be difficult for the young to communicate and they do this in a charming and creative way that encourages clarity, comfort and kindness and allowing open, free expression and valid self-introspection.
The b kinder workbooks are a daily personal reminder to walk, speak and think kindness."