The importance of safe spaces | Leon Stensholm | TEDxSt Marys College Youth

We talk constantly about anxiety, loneliness, and mental health, but what if these are symptoms rather than the root cause? Dr Leon Stensholm explores the growing crisis of human disconnection and argues that genuine belonging begins when people feel seen, valued, and safe to be themselves. Through the concept of creating safe spaces, he challenges us to consider whether rebuilding human connection may be one of the most powerful ways to improve wellbeing in our schools, workplaces, and communities. Dr Leon Stensholm is a nationally recognised mental health advocate, counsellor, sports nutritionist and four-time author. He was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Arts in recognition of his contributions to suicide prevention and youth mental health and has been recognised through a number of national and regional awards for his community work.
Driven by personal experience following the loss of his brother and several clients to suicide, Leon founded Lookout07, a Sunshine Coast youth centre that provides free counselling, leadership programs and fitness-based mental health support for young people.
Drawing on his background in elite sport, mental health and community leadership, Leon works with individuals, schools, sporting organisations and businesses across Australia to encourage meaningful conversations around resilience, wellbeing and suicide prevention. His work is centred on a simple belief: kindness can change lives. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx