Research Shows…
Having the
FRIENDS program available in schools is important as research shows that:
- One in five adults and children suffer anxiety or depression. This is more prevalent than ADHD, drug use, or any other mental health problem.
- Anxiety and depressive disorders make up 60% of school and work difficulties (Andrews, 2005).
- Less than a third of people with diagnosable mental health disorder receive treatment (Essau, 2005).
- Anxiety disorders are the greatest risk factor for suicide ideation and attempts (Sareen et al., 2005).
- Australia has the 4th highest youth suicide rate worldwide (WHO, 2006)
- Suicide is the number one cause of death in Australia in the 15-24 years age group (ABS, 2010).
What is emotional resilience?
Resilience refers to a person’s ability to “bounce back” from adversity, and to achieve good outcomes regardless of life events, circumstances or background.
Research shows that resilient children are happier, do better at school, have increased confidence, form good relationships, show fewer behavioural problems, take on and persist with challenging tasks, and are more able to communicate effectively.
Edith Grotberg, a developmental psychologist has stated, “Resilience is important because it is the human capacity to face, overcome and be strengthened by or even transformed by the adversities of life.” (1995)
