Australian researchers have received funding to develop a customised Internet program to equip young people, especially those at risk, with the skills and resilience to avoid depression. The web-based program will aim to prevent depression by building resilience. The service will be focused towards young people (aged 18-24)who fall into high risk groups such as strong family history of mood disorders, and other factors relating to environment, lifestyle, personality and stress management.
The need for this type of preventative approach is vital. Studies indicate that about 50 percent of all life-long psychiatric disorders start by the age of 14, and about 75 percent of disorders are present by the age of 24. If people within this age group have been better equip with better coping strategies and resilience, the hope is that the severity of disorders will be reduced and that prevalence rates might reduce.
The current system of treating disorders after symptoms emerge has been likened to only treating heart disease patients when they have a heart attack. It is important that everyone has access to mental health services and strategies and that everyone practices mentally healthy habits.
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