Reach Out Central launched in Australia today with a simple idea: To help youth get through the crisis moments in their life.

While based only in Australia for the moment, Reach Out Central is taking their message to the youth in a format they know well, video games. 

Aimed at people aged 16 – 25, the site provides information, support and links to services for those who are in the worst crisis.  Their games and information cover things such as depression, anxiety, self-harm, independence and body image.  Besides the games and information links, there are forums for people to chat with people in similar situations and to support one another.

Run by the Inspire Foundation, they have received financial support for their venture from sources such as Sony Foundation Austrlia, Beyondblue, New South Wales Health, Teen Spirit Foundation and The Golden Stave.

While there is no mention on their site of expanding outside of Australia, it is certainly a worthwhile cause that one hopes could at least be replicated in other countries.  With games an ever growing entertainment medium for people of all age groups, this seems a reasonable method of spreading their message and attempting to help.

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Entry was posted on Sunday, September 16th, 2007 at 8:18 pm under Health, Tips and advice.

Read more entries by Sean P. Aune.
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