The successful Emotional Distress photographic exhibition by young people from the Western Bulldogs’ SpiritWest Services FRESH program will be on display at Footscray Library until the end of May.

“Emotional Distress was created by 30 young participants, aged 15-to-19 years, to give them a chance to be heard and express their feelings and perspectives about a hidden issue in society – depression,” said the Facilitator of FRESH, Mr Chris Christoforou.

As part of their studies in the CGEA and VCAL, the participants discussed the way the see themselves as young people and how the public see them, how visible or invisible they are and whether or not people actually listen to them.

“Over six weeks, they explored these issues and captured their impressions on depression through the lens of a camera,” Mr Christoforou said.

The students then put together the exhibition of 56 photographs reflecting a broad interpretation of the issue. The exhibition was first displayed at Whitten Oval in March and received a very positive response.

Maribyrnong City Council’s Library Services staff heard about the original exhibition and worked with SpiritWest Services to organise another showing at Footscray Library during May.

Maribyrnong Library Service’s Youth Services Librarian, Ms Tina Cavanough, said the public response to the new exhibition has been fantastic.
“The photographs only went up last week, but there has already been lots of interest and heaps of comments about it. Let me just say, I was blown away by how great the photos are, and how these young people have interpreted their topic,” said Ms Cavanough.

Mayor of the City of Maribyrnong, Cr Michael Clarke, said, “As a professional working in the mental health field, I know how important it is to bring depression out into the open and not ignore the symptoms.”

“It’s estimated 1 in 5 Australians will experience depression during their life and it’s one of the biggest health issues facing our community.”

“This exhibit is a positive way for young people to explore the issue and break some of the taboos and misconceptions surrounding depression,” Cr Clarke said.

Emotional Distress is on display at Footscray Library, 56 Paisley Street, Footscray, throughout May. For more information about the FRESH program, contact SpiritWest Services on 9680 6166. Anyone in need of help or information about depression should contact BeyondBlue on 1300 224 636 for 24 hour advice or go to www.beyondblue.com.au

The Western Bulldogs Football Club has been running education programs for young people for approximately 12 years. In 2002, the Bulldogs created a new company, SpiritWest Services, and thus FRESH was born. The FRESH programs are dedicated to educating youth who have either fallen through the cracks of the education system or been pushed out. The nationally accredited alternative programs offer a way for individuals to attain senior secondary qualifications. These range from a Year 10 equivalent (CGEA) through to VCAL (the Year 12 equivalent).