OPEN UP FAQ’s

WHO CAN COME?

Anyone aged 18-29 can come to Open Up. Come by yourself, or bring a friend. We encourage people of all social groups and identities to come along.

WHO RUNS THE SESSION?

Each session is run by two One Eighty Open Up Peer Support Workers, who are aged 18-29. We take diversity seriously, our Peer Support Workers are a diverse group of young people from all over Australia, thus ensuring that Open Up is an inclusive program for all young people. Peer Support Workers are trained in Mental Health First Aid, group facilitation, and cultural competency.

WHO DEVELOPED THE OPEN UP PROGRAM?

Open Up was developed by One Eighty in consultation with experts on our Wellbeing Advisory Group. Meet our Advisory Group here.

do i have to speak?

Nope, it's totally okay if you just listen and don't speak at all.

WHY SHOULD I COME ALONG?

Let's be real, we all experience challenges, and life can be crappy sometimes. These experiences can be isolating and lonely. But in our experience, talking about them is an opportunity for profound connection with other people who've been there too. Imagine a whole generation of people who know how to Open Up!

Is open up therapy?

This isn’t a therapy space. It’s not run by mental health professionals. It’s not somewhere to find ‘the answer’.

It’s a discussion space, where you can chat with other people asking the same questions.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

Nothing! It is and always will be free.

It is important to remember that Open Up is a community support group, and not a professional mental health care service. If you need extra support, or have further questions about your own mental health, please do not hesitate to reach out to a trained professional at anytime (24/7) at Lifeline on 13 11 14. In cases of emergency, always call 000.