Youth Mental Health Workshop (Ages 13–15)

Moonee Ponds, Victoria | 21 January

January can be a heavy time for many teens.

Changes in routine, school approaching, and emotional carry‑over from the year just gone can show up as anxiety, withdrawal, irritability, or feeling overwhelmed.

This small, in‑person workshop is designed to gently support teens to better understand their emotions and learn simple coping tools — in a calm, age‑appropriate environment.

Is this workshop a good fit?

This session may be suitable for teens who:

• Feel anxious, stressed, or emotionally flat

• Find large groups or classroom settings difficult

• Are reluctant to speak up in front of others

• Would benefit from gentle guidance in a calm space

Group numbers are intentionally small to support comfort and emotional safety.

How this workshop supports young people

Rather than focusing on labels or diagnosis, this workshop helps teens:

• Understand common mental health and emotional responses

• Recognise changes in their thoughts, feelings, or behaviour

• Learn what to do when emotions feel overwhelming

• Build confidence in knowing when and how to seek help

The approach is practical, supportive, and focused on early awareness and resilience.

Understanding the pressures teens face today

Young people today navigate a complex mix of academic demands, social expectations, family dynamics, and exposure to challenging experiences.

This workshop acknowledges those realities and provides a safe space for teens to:

• Make sense of emotional ups and downs

• Learn simple strategies to manage stress and anxiety

• Feel less alone in what they’re experiencing

What teens will gain from the session

By participating, teens will be supported to:

• Recognise emotional, physical, and behavioural signs that wellbeing may be shifting

• Learn simple grounding and coping strategies

• Understand how to respond if they or a peer feel distressed or unsafe

• Build confidence in asking for help and knowing where to turn

There is no pressure to share and no requirement to speak in front of the group.

How the workshop is delivered

This is a non‑accredited, educational workshop designed specifically for young people.

• Small, calm group (not a classroom)

• No forced participation or spotlighting

• Supportive, non‑judgemental environment

• Facilitated by a qualified, registered teacher

• Daisy the therapy dog present to help teens feel more at ease

The session is structured, gentle, and intentionally low‑pressure.

Who this workshop may not suit

This session may not be suitable for teens who:

• Are experiencing acute mental health distress or crisis

• Require 1:1 clinical or therapeutic intervention

If you’re unsure, a brief suitability chat is encouraged.

Practical details

• Date: 21 January

• Location: Moonee Ponds, Victoria

• Age group: 13–15 years

• Group size: Strictly limited