Sixteen-year-old Austin Wyeth, from Trigg, has raised more than $11,000 for youth mental health after completing a 100km run along the Scarborough coastline.
He completed the gruelling feat in a single day last month, covering 10 laps of a 10km circuit.
Austin raised the funds for Fremantle-based youth mental health charity 20Talk, which aims to provide young people with the tools and skills to navigate life’s challenges before things reach a crisis point.
He was supported throughout the event by family and friends who joined him along the route, including his best mate Isaac May, who rode behind him for the full 100km.
Speaking to his fellow students at Newman College in Churchlands, Austin said his own mental health struggles, along with those experienced by his friends and family, inspired him to take on the challenge.
“Seeing people I care about go through such heavy challenges has had a deep impact on me, and it made me realise how important it is to acknowledge what we are feeling, to talk about it, and to support one another,” Austin said.
“You shouldn’t need a special week or month to check in on your mates. Someone could be struggling on any day at any time, and often it’s very hard to see.”
Camera IconSixteen-year-old Austin Wyeth during his 100km run, being supported by friends and family. Credit: Supplied
Austin encouraged his peers who may be struggling with their mental health not to be afraid to speak up, telling them that reaching out was not a sign of weakness but rather a sign of courage.
“Speaking up can be the first step towards getting support, understanding, and relief. And when we create an environment where people feel safe to talk, we make it easier for everyone to take that step,” he said.
“Too often we convince ourselves that we have to deal with everything alone, but the truth is very different.
“On average, one in every five people will experience depression at some point in their lifetime. That means even when you feel isolated, you’re far from alone.
“There are people around you, teammates, classmates, family and friends who are facing similar mental battles, even if you can’t see it on the surface.”
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, almost two in five Australians aged 16 to 24 experience a mental disorder each year, the highest rate of any age group.
Anxiety was found to be the most common mental health condition, affecting almost one in three people aged 16 to 24.
While going through tough times, Austin believes the most important thing a person can do is surround themselves with good people, but also find something they are passionate about.
“I’ve learned one of the best things you can do for yourself is to find something you genuinely love, something that feels safe, grounding, and free from judgment,” he said.
Camera IconSixteen-year-old Austin Wyeth completed a gruelling 100km run along Perth’s coast. Credit: Supplied
“For me, that was running. No matter what was going on, I could always head out for a run. Angry, upset, stressed or just bored, it gave me something to do.
“I encourage everyone to find their own version of what running became for me. It could be anything from taking the dog for a walk, going for a swim, cooking dinner with your family, reading a book, or even just drawing.
“There’s no doubt there are people out there who love you for exactly who you are and will stand with you no matter what.”
If you or someone you know needs support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or online at lifeline.org.au. Young people can also contact the Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 or visit kidshelpline.com.au.