It's sad but not surprising to hear almost 16 per cent of young people participating in a new national survey were personally concerned about bullying.
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The 2015 Mission Australia Youth Survey canvassed the views of 19,000 people aged 12 to 19 on a variety of topics.
The survey showed that 15.9 per cent of respondents were personally concerned about bullying, and the views of two teens at Dubbo reinforced the survey results.
Nathon Price and Josh Streeting said poor mental health and bullying were becoming increasingly prevalent, with Nathon saying it occurred through social media.
The positive aspect of the Mission Australia Youth Survey is that it shines a light on these concerns so they gain recognition.
From there as a community we can take actions to try to address the issues.
It is interesting to note the majority of teens - 87 per cent - surveyed said they turned to their friends for help, followed by 76 per cent who went to their family.
The survey is a reminder to parents and other family members to foster the kinds of relationships that will allow these young people to come to them for help.
The survey also highlights the importance of the work services with youth are doing.
If we are to see improvement in these areas, and increase the number of young people with a positive feeling about the future - the survey showed it was at 62 per cent - there needs to be a continuing commitment to these services, including in funding.