You Got This – supporting 2020 school leavers

2020 has been a difficult year for so many Australians and it’s been particularly tough for our Year 12s.

Year 12 can be stressful at the best of times, let alone with the disruptions caused by COVID-19, which have impacted students’ study and seen Schoolies and formals cancelled, gap years abandoned and youth unemployment reaching almost 15%.

Research undertaken for DrinkWise in October 2020 shows that of the 519 Year 12 students surveyed nationwide:

• 65% rated this year as more difficult than they expected
• 48% don’t feel good about what’s happening in their life
• 48% don’t think they’re dealing with their problems well
• 41% are worried about their own mental health
• 11% (15% of 18-19s) are drinking alcohol or smoking to relieve stress and anxiety
• 4% have accessed professional support services when feeling anxious or stressed.

This research has formed the basis of You Got This, an initiative created by DrinkWise in which well-known Australians offer messages of support to Year 12 students who may be struggling this year.  The videos encourage students to stay positive, reminding them that it’s ok to ask for help and that trying to relieve stress or anxiety with alcohol is not the answer.

Prominent Australians, including Australian Test Cricket Captain Tim Paine, 7.30 Host Leigh Sales, NRL Players James Tedesco and Damien Cook and the Governor-General His Excellency, General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd), have filmed messages for the initiative.

The messages are hosted on a purpose-built microsite which includes links to support services to provide assistance for those struggling: Beyond Blue, Headspace, Kids Helpline, My Mirror and ReachOut.

The videos – some of which are highlighted below – can be viewed and shared across social media and with anyone you know who might be struggling, by visiting www.yougotthis.org.au.

The second phase of You Got This features a series of six video interviews offering practical tips and experiences that can help school-leavers remain confident and resilient as they embark on life after school. Hosted by Dr Andrew Rochford and recent Year 12 graduate Antonia Strickland, these interviews cover topics such as university life, financial advice, making the most of a good idea and how to help friends doing it tough.

The series features:

• Nick Molnar – Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer, Afterpay: “What to do when you have a great idea”.
• Bella Safari – 23-year-old university student: “What Uni is like and why it helps to be flexible”.
• Glen James – Host, My Millennial Money: “Money tips & tricks for Year 12s”.
• Ashley de Silva – Chief Executive Officer, ReachOut: “How to handle the fear of the unknown”. 
• Saxon Phipps – Founder, Year13: “Creating a plan when things don’t go to plan”.
• Alice Bleathman – Dietician and nutritionist: “Finding and pursuing your passion”. 

To access the videos and to see messages of support, visit www.yougotthis.org.au