Speak up: young people urged to share health needs

Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN) is asking young people aged between 12 and 24 to complete a quick, anonymous health survey this July.

MPHN’s Health Needs Assessment survey will help provide a valuable snapshot of young people’s health needs in the Murrumbidgee.

Chief Data Officer Dr Jason Bennie PhD said while MPHN has more information about the health needs of older adults, in comparison there had been limited survey responses from those aged 18 years and under.

“It’s particularly important we get responses from younger community members because the latest data shows disparities between the health and wellbeing of young people in the Murrumbidgee compared to the national and state average,” Dr Bennie said.

“Young people in the Murrumbidgee have higher rates of mortality, teen pregnancies, and long-term health conditions including asthma, obesity, and mental health conditions.

“The feedback will help us ensure we’re commissioning the right health services in the communities that need them.”

headspace Wagga Wagga Manager Shane Thomas said the service is seeing an increase in referrals for stress related issues, suicidality, and difficulty in personal relationships.

“Young people today feel a lot of pressure to keep up with what they’re seeing on social media,” Mr Thomas said.

“Add concerns about school or university, the environment, and other factors like financial and housing issues; it can all have a detrimental impact on a young person’s mental health and sense of wellbeing.

“I’d urge parents and carers, community groups, schools and sporting organisations to encourage young people to complete the survey so Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network can gain a fuller picture of what health services our young people need.”

You can access the quick and anonymous HNA Community Feedback surveys at mphn.org.au/hna