A career in youth work
Anyone who works with young people, or who has teenagers at home can easily identify with the worries surrounding their generation and the pressures they face.
Research suggests that as many as 1 in 6 young people will experience an anxiety condition at some point in their lives and already may be living with anxiety, depression, or panic attacks.
In addition, a greater number of young people are suffering financially, living in child poverty, and suffering from material deprivation and social exclusion.
Some studies have also shown that online connections and social media interactions have led to a rise in symptoms of anxiety, depression, and eating disorders in young people.
The pressures and stresses in their lives, combined with the fact that their age means they haven’t yet developed appropriate coping skills, leaves many young people feeling desperate, confused, and alone, and unfortunately this can lead to self-harm or suicide.
Finding help
In Australia, there are many government and not-for-profit organisations that offer services to young people aged 12-25 years. Local governments will have youth advisory councils whose role is to engage with young people on matters that are important to them, and state and federal governments have initiatives that are aimed at developing strategies to help youth in overcoming issues and implementing positive changes in their lives.
Within all youth services – whether government or not-for-profit – there is a need for youth workers.
Become a youth worker
Youth Workers support young people who are facing a variety of issues, and offer practical and emotional support and work with individuals or groups.
As a youth worker, you will make a difference in the lives of vulnerable kids and teens. You will gain their trust and support them through some of the hardest situations in life. From grief through to alcoholism, homelessness, domestic violence, and abuse – you will be there to support them.
To begin a career as a youth worker, you will need appropriate qualifications. TrainSmart offers a Diploma of Youth Work, which is designed to give you the diverse skillset to then be able to help young people to make good decisions, and positively change their lives.
To find out more about this rewarding and important career, visit TrainSmart Australia website.
