Many of the traditional barriers to seeking help are reduced in
an online setting.1 The Internet has
been identified as a key source of advice and support,2 and young people may be more likely to seek
help on a site such as ReachOut.com than to talk
to a professional such as a GP or counsellor.3 In addition to the reduced barriers, online
help seeking can result in feelings of empowerment, as the young
person can moderate the intensity and the duration of the
contact.
For more information on the key ways in which young people seek
help online, and information on the appeal and requirements of
online resources, read through the following pages:
Other Resources
For case studies of tools and spaces that you can use in
practice with young people, visit the Reviews of Therapeutic Tools
and Interviews sections of
ReachOutPro.com.au.
For professional development resources on using technology in
your practice, visit the Professional Development
section.
For information on the uptake of online spaces and trends in the
use of communications technology, visit the Use of Social Media
and Online Spaces, Trends in Online Behaviour
or Benefits of
Social Media and Online Spaces sections.
For more information on safety risks and how to help young
people stay safe online, visit the Online Safety section.