Ocean Mind

A recent YouGov poll commissioned by Orygen revealed that 76% of Australians aged 16–25 are concerned about climate change, with 67% reporting that it negatively impacts youth mental health, rising to 74% among young women. Ocean Mind (OM) is uniquely positioned to respond to this growing crisis. As a therapeutic surfing charity, OM delivers evidence-based programs that support young people experiencing mental health challenges through the power of surfing, ocean connection, and 1:1 mentoring.

Our mission is to create a safe, supportive environment where young people can build self-efficacy, resilience, and confidence. By increasing access to nature and blue spaces, OM fosters mental wellbeing while deepening participants’ connection to the ocean environment. Research shows that stronger nature connectedness is linked to improved mental health, as well as a greater sense of environmental responsibility.

Through our structured programs, young people learn coping strategies, life skills, and positive behaviours that support both personal and environmental wellbeing. By reconnecting youth with the ocean, OM not only addresses the mental health impacts of climate distress but also cultivates a generation of environmentally conscious individuals. Our values, Empowerment, Sustainability, Connection, and Stoke, guide everything we do as we help young people thrive.

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