The Living Stories Project
The Living Stories project showcases the stories and experiences of those with living and lived experience of mental ill health and mental health challenges. This project has been delivered in partnership with Yarra Ranges Council, Eastern Health and Inspiro Community Health.
Yarra Ranges has an above average level of residents with a long-term mental health condition. Young people and women are both particularly affected. It has an above average hospital admission rate for mental health issues.
Some other key statistics for the Yarra Ranges include:
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Yarra Ranges has the fourth-highest level of teenagers and young adults with a mental health condition across metropolitan Melbourne.
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13.3% of 15-24 year olds have a mental health condition
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The prevalence of mental health conditions in young women (17.9%) compared to young men (9.1%) is almost double.
The project aims to reduce stigma around mental health through the stories of six Yarra Ranges residents. We want to encourage others to seek help if they need it and normalise the many ways mental health challenges touch our lives.
Through co-design, the participants:
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decided how they would tell their stories
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chose where their stories would be shared
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supported the design and delivery of the launch event.
Learn about their stories
We can’t thank the participants enough for their time and effort in sharing their stories and experiences through this project.
Have these stories impacted you?
Are you 15 years or older and have found these stories impactful? We'd love to hear why.
Please fill out The Living Stories of Mental Health Community Survey to give your feedback!
Are you in need of support?
If you are someone in need of key services, please visit our Mental Health Support to learn more.