VJBL Tackling Depression this Season
In a first for the League, the VJBL is delighted to announce it has teamed up with beyondblue: the national depression initiative, as the League’s chosen charity for the 2010 Aussie Oranges Championship Season.
“We are delighted to be able to formalise a partnership with such a well-respected organisation.” said VJBL Chairman Niall Quinn. “Depression and anxiety disorders in young people are growing issues and it is so important that we, as a league, play an active role in promoting awareness.”
Research shows that depression and anxiety disorders often develop in adolescence. Around 20 per cent of young people will have experienced significant depressive symptoms by the time they reach adulthood. (www.youthbeyondblue.com)
According to current VJBL participation figures, that equates to one in five – or 1,720 – VJBL participants who will experience some form of depression by the time they turn 18.
The VJBL and beyondblue will run a number of different activities throughout the season aimed to raise awareness of depression and anxiety disorders.
First, will be the unveiling of the specially-designed beyondblue shirts that will be worn by the Panel Referees throughout the 2010 Aussie Oranges Championship Season.
“There are several different activities we will be looking at throughout the year including a ‘blue round’ and some web-based marketing aimed at promoting awareness amongst the basketball family” Mr Quinn said.
“We see this partnership as a great opportunity for the league to give back to the community. The VJBL is committed to making a difference in children’s lives by raising awareness of depression and anxiety.”
beyondblue CEO Leonie Young added: “We are thrilled to be working with the VJBL and we see this is a wonderful opportunity to get important mental health information to everyone involved in junior basketball in Victoria.
“Young people need to know that depression and anxiety disorders are common illnesses that can be treated. We encourage young people to look for the signs of depression and anxiety, to listen to their friends, to talk about what’s going on and to seek help together if it’s needed.”
Log onto www.vjbl.com.au to find out more and keep an eye out at your local venue for more information on the partnership and upcoming activities.
For more information about depression, anxiety and related disorders, visit www.beyondblue.org.au or www.youthbeyondblue.com or call 1300 22 4636.
- Image curtsey Ian Knight
