SANE Australia will launch itsallright.org - a new version of its website for teenagers with family affected by mental illness. The service aims to make a dramatic difference to teens in these families by providing them with the information and advice they urgently need, integrated with an online Helpline to answer specific questions.

Features of itsallright.org:
-Diaries of four teenagers based on real stories
-An online Helpline for teenagers to ask questions about mental illness and related topics
-Factsheets on everything from antidepressants to eating disorders; family support to treatment and recovery
-Podcasts which provide information about different mental health problems and treatment.

SANE estimates half a million young Australians have a brother, sister or parent with a mental illness. Growing up with mental illness in the family can often be a confusing and lonely experience: home life may involve episodic illness or periods of hospitalization for their parent or other relative, poverty, and even homelessness.

The impact on teenagers with mental illness in the family can be profound: often leaving them feeling distressed and isolated. Many may be forced to grow up early and look after their parents or siblings. Teenagers with a family member affected by mental illness are also more likely to become depressed themselves -- part of a vicious circle that can be difficult to escape.

SANE Australia: A national charity working for a better life for people affected by mental illness through education, research, and campaigning for improved services and attitudes. SANE operates Australia's only national Freecall Helpline providing information and advice about symptoms, treatment and support services for mental illness: 1800 18 SANE (7263).