Kids with confidence: a program for adolescents living in families affected by mental illness

To provide information about a peer support program for adolescents living in families affected by mental illness.

This is a descriptive article about the Kids with Confidence Adolescent Program.

The program operates in rural Victoria using a variety of community venues.

Young people aged between 12-18 years, living in families affected by mental illness.

The program provides respite, education, support and fun through monthly, semistructured activities. The adolescents are encouraged to talk openly about their circumstances and any difficulties they might be having. They learn appropriate social skills, and provide and receive peer support.

The group consistently attracts between 7 and 15 adolescents, with an average attendance of 11.25. Verbal feedback from the young people involved and their families has been very positive, with reported improvements in confidence, self-esteem and the formation of strong, trusting friendships.

The Kids with Confidence Adolescent Program provides young people living in families affected by mental illness with peer and worker support, respite, and an opportunity to learn social and mental health skills. This might enhance young people's resilience and ability to cope with difficult situations.