The COVID-19 pandemic changed the landscape of mental health for people of all ages, but its effects on children have been particularly profound. From school closures to social isolation and uncertainty about the future, the younger generation faced unprecedented challenges. According to the Australian Psychological Society, there was a significant spike in mental health issues among children and adolescents during the pandemic, including anxiety, depression, and loneliness.
One of the most alarming statistics was that more than 50% of young Australians aged 18-24 experienced mental health difficulties during this time. These challenges didn’t vanish when lockdowns ended or when schools reopened. In fact, many children continue to carry the emotional scars of that period, with difficulties in socialisation, increased stress around academic performance, and an overwhelming sense of uncertainty about the world.
Glenn Marsden: Changing the Conversation Around Mental Health
In response to this growing crisis, Glenn Marsden, the founder of the Imperfectly Perfect Campaign, made it his mission to redefine the way society talks about mental health, and in the past year particularly for children and adolescents. Through his school talks and the larger work of the campaign, Glenn has been tackling mental health challenges head-on, providing students with the tools they need to address their struggles in a healthy, supportive environment.
The Imperfectly Perfect Campaign—which is not a charity, nor one reliant on donations, grants, or government funding—has been one of the cornerstones of Glenn’s philanthropic efforts. Glenn recognised early on that creating long-term impact in the mental health space required more than just awareness; it required sustainable action. He founded the Imperfectly Perfect Campaign as a movement to create conversations around mental health, building bridges between people and the support they need, without relying on the uncertainty that often comes with charity funding.
Instead, Glenn’s efforts are self-sustaining. Through his own work and passion for change, he has been able to grow the campaign into an international movement that touches millions of lives, reaching schools, organisations, and individuals around the world. By ensuring the campaign is not dependent on external funding, Glenn has created a platform that continues to thrive, creating change that is lasting and tangible.
Making a Difference in Schools
Glenn’s talks in schools have been particularly impactful, offering students a chance to hear from someone who has lived through their own struggles and overcome them. Rather than simply talking at students, Glenn speaks with them, creating an open dialogue around mental health issues. His approach helps break the stigma surrounding these topics, encouraging students to not only talk about their challenges but also to seek the help they need.
One of the key aspects of Glenn's school talks is his focus on resilience, self-acceptance, and empathy—values that were crucial during the pandemic and continue to be important in this post-pandemic world. Glenn’s ability to connect with young people, combined with his message of authenticity, makes his talks more than just an educational session; they become a call to action for students to take ownership of their mental well-being.
The Imperfectly Perfect Campaign is not just about individual success; it is about fostering a collective sense of community and support. Glenn’s belief is that when young people are encouraged to embrace their imperfections and seek support from their peers and mentors, they begin to build the foundation for a healthier, more resilient generation.
The Road Ahead: Breaking the Cycle of Stigma
The challenges of the pandemic may have deepened the mental health crisis for many children, but Glenn Marsden's work with the Imperfectly Perfect Campaign provides hope. By focusing on sustainable, action-based solutions, Glenn is not only making a difference in the lives of children today but is also paving the way for future generations to have open, honest conversations about their mental health.
While mental health challenges are still very much a reality for many children and adolescents, Glenn’s work continues to demonstrate that positive change is possible. His campaign provides the tools and support for children to not only survive but to thrive—no matter what they face in their lives.
The message is clear: We all have a part to play in supporting the mental health of the next generation. Through Glenn Marsden’s Imperfectly Perfect Campaign, we are witnessing how a single, committed individual can make a world of difference—and, together, we can continue to break the stigma and create a healthier future for everyone.
To find out about booking Glenn in 2025 for your school, simply email the team today at generalenquiries@imperfectlyperfectcampaign.org
imperfectlyperfectcampaign.org
