Honiara Youth Counselling Service Encourages Young People to Seek Support

Young people in Honiara facing difficult experiences are being encouraged to seek support early and talk to someone they trust rather than carrying their struggles alone.

The Honiara City Council Youth Department provides a confidential counselling service where young people can speak with a counsellor about issues affecting their emotional and personal wellbeing.

Youth Department highlighted that young people do not need to wait until a situation becomes a crisis before reaching out.

The service supports young people experiencing stress, anxiety, grief, family or relationship difficulties, alcohol or drug-related concerns, and challenges at school, work or in the community.

Through counselling, young people can talk through what they are experiencing, identify practical ways to cope with difficult situations, build confidence and resilience, and make informed choices.

Where further assistance is needed, the Youth Department can also connect young people with appropriate support and referral services.

A space to talk

For some young people, talking about personal problems can be difficult. Concerns about being judged, misunderstood or not taken seriously can prevent them from seeking help.

The HCC Youth Department's counselling service provides an opportunity for young people to speak with someone in a confidential setting and discuss concerns affecting their lives.

The service forms part of the Youth Department's wider work with young people through counselling, community outreach and awareness activities.

Its focus is not only on responding when young people are experiencing serious difficulties, but also on encouraging them to seek support early.

Sometimes, having someone listen can be an important first step.

Why youth support matters

The importance of accessible support for young people is reflected in national data.

The 2023 Solomon Islands Global School-based Student Health Survey, conducted among students in Forms 1 to 6, collected responses from 1,995 students, typically aged 13 to 17. The survey examined several areas of young people's health, including mental health, alcohol and drug use, violence and protective factors. WHO: 2023 Solomon Islands GSHS Fact Sheet

The survey found that 6.1 per cent of students reported having no close friends. It also found that 19.9 per cent had seriously considered attempting suicide during the previous 12 months, while 29 per cent reported attempting suicide one or more times during that period.

These figures do not describe every young person in Honiara, but they underline the importance of having trusted adults, counselling and referral services available when young people are experiencing distress.

The World Health Organization says childhood and adolescence are critical stages for mental health, when young people develop social and emotional skills that influence their wellbeing and ability to cope with challenges. WHO: Child and adolescent mental and brain health

For young people, seeking counselling does not mean they have failed or are unable to deal with their problems.

It can be a practical first step towards understanding what they are experiencing and finding a way forward.

How to access the service

Young people who would like to speak with a counsellor can contact HCC Youth Counsellor Mr Terry Wauo:

Phone: +677 26345
Email: terry.wauo@honiaracitycouncil.com.sb

The counselling service operates under a confidentiality policy, providing young people with a safe space to discuss their concerns and seek support.

 

The HCC Youth Department's message to young people is simple:

“We listen. We support. We care.”

If something is troubling you, you do not have to face it alone. Reach out and talk to someone.