Two dedicated mental health experts will be sent to every public high school in NSW under a state government plan to help young people struggling with bullying and stress.
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NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian on Tuesday announced an $88 million package for 350 student support officers and up to 100 additional full-time counsellors or qualified psychologists in high schools.
"This will make it easy for young people to access help when they're going through a tough time and also give teachers the support to deal with challenges faced by students," Ms Berejiklian said in a statement.
Two experts will be on hand in all public high schools to offer extra support and advice for students struggling with anxiety, stress and bullying.
They will also determine if students need to be referred to experts outside the school environment.
NSW Education Minister Rob Stokes said the funding will help normalise speaking up and seeking help when it comes to mental health.
"It is critical that parents, teachers and students know there is always someone they can turn to for support," Mr Stokes said in a statement.
About 14 per cent of children between four and 17 years old experience a mental illness - a figure the government expects to rise.
The announcement comes less than five weeks before the state election on March 23.
Australian Associated Press
