New Zealand is being urged to wake up to the new reality of mental health.
The Government has launched a multi-million-dollar pilot, offering 18- to 25-year-olds free counselling.
Victoria University Students' Association President, Marlon Drake, says there are new challenges facing young people.
"Pressures which have not been experienced in the past," he said.
"[I'm] getting really sick and tired of this toughen up attitude, it's one of the most damaging things we can do to the conversation around mental health."
Mr Drake from Victoria University says we have needed a new approach.
"What we really need to do is come together, admit if we really want to tackle issue of mental health we have to do it at a community and we need to acknowledge our young people, acknowledge the concerns that they have," he said.
Association of Counsellors Executive Officer Antony McFelin welcomes the initiative.
Newshub.
