Craigieburn's Terry Tierney and Greenvale's Anthony Pisano, both 18, will walk from Melbourne to Sydney in January.

About 18 months ago they founded a group called Freedom - Raise Awareness For Depression & Suicide Prevention.

It was set up following Mr Tierney's battle with depression and drug addiction that culminated in an attempt to take his own life. Mr Pisano, his best friend, supported him through the experience.

Mr Tierney has now been clean from drugs for more than two years.

"We have been best mates for about five years and went to high school together. He [Anthony] helped me through a lot of the issues I had," Mr Tierney said.

He said they created the group to raise awareness about depression, drug addiction, self harm and suicide prevention.

Its Facebook page is designed to be a safe place where young people can discuss issues.

"It is a safe place where people can come and talk about their issues if they don't feel comfortable talking to a doctor or psychologist. Then when they feel comfortable we can give them the information about where they can get help," Mr Tierney said.

"You can talk about any issue, it doesn't matter it might seem small, like the stress of exams. There is nothing too big or too small ."

The group has almost 8700 members and needs 10,000 so they can make the trek.

Mr Tierney said the 900-kilometre walk, expected to take about 14 days, was a

way to bring attention to the issue.

"Walking is somewhat symbolic of breaking through problem and persevering. We are all walking through life."

He said they were looking at fund-raising opportunities to tie into the walk.

To join the group, visit www.facebook.com and search for 'Freedom - Raise Awareness For Depression & Suicide Prevention'.

Details: beyondblue or call 1300 224 636.

For help with depression and associated matters, call Suicide Helpline Victoria, 1300 651 251, or Lifeline, 13 11 14.