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"EMPOWERING YOUTH"
Mental Health Support

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We Provide information and support to help everyone in Australia achieve their best possible mental health. We provide a free, private, and confidential 24/7 phone and online counseling service for young people aged 15 to 25.

We research on mental health and offer a variety of resources and programs to help young people.

We create a more nurturing and supportive environment for youth mental health.

We provide information and support to help everyone in Australia achieve their best possible mental health. We offer resources, tools, and forums for young people to discuss their mental health concerns and seek support. Our website provides a wealth of information on various mental health topics and strategies for coping with stress and anxiety.

We offer free, private, and confidential 24/7 phone and online counseling service for young people aged 15 to 25.

We offer support for a range of issues, including mental health, family relationships, and school concerns. Young people can reach out via phone, web chat, or email to speak with a trained counsellor.

We conduct research into mental health and offer a variety of resources and programs to help young people.

We focus on early intervention and prevention, providing tools and information to manage mental health conditions.

We also offer online self-help programs and resources for schools and communities.

We offer alcohol and drug abuse prevention services for young people aged 12-25

We Provide online mental health support, information, and resources for young people.

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EMPOWERING YOUTH

This program is designed to help young people achieve their full potential through professionally supported one-on-one relationships with mentors. Mentors help youth navigate academic challenges, career aspirations, and personal development. We provide guidance, support, and help with career advice, and personal development. We offer one-on-one mentoring, group mentoring, and peer mentoring. We provide weekend workshops, weekly support groups, and one-on-one sessions to help young people develop life skills and build confidence.

 

Mental Health Services called Project “MOON”

“Moon” This program provides free or low-cost services across Australia, focusing on mental health, physical health, work and study support, and alcohol and other drug services. We offer a safe and welcoming environment for young people to get the help they need. We provide early intervention, mental health services for 12-25 year olds. We offer support for mental health. We offer school-based counseling services, community mental health clinics, and online counseling options ensuring that mental health services are affordable and accessible to all youth. Providing access to counseling, therapy, and mental health resources can address emotional and psychological needs. We help young people overcome drug and alcohol challenges, improve their mental health, and lead healthy, fulfilling lives. We empower at-risk youth aged 12-25 to break free from trauma and reclaim their futures.

 

 

 

Youth counseling is a focused area of therapy aimed at assisting young individuals in navigating the distinct challenges they encounter during their developmental stages.

Objectives of Youth Counseling

- Emotional Support: Creating a safe environment for young people to share their feelings and concerns.
-Skill Development: Aiding teens in developing coping strategies, problem-solving abilities, and emotional regulation skills.
- Behavioral Guidance: Tackling behavioral issues and encouraging positive behavior changes.
- Mental Health Management: Recognizing and addressing mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, and trauma.

Common Techniques

- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Assists young individuals in identifying and altering negative thought patterns and behaviors.
- Play Therapy: Utilizes play as a means for children to express their emotions and address issues.
- Family Therapy: Engages family members in the counseling process to enhance communication and resolve conflicts.
- Group Therapy: Offers a supportive setting where young people can share experiences and learn from one another.

Advantages

- Improved Mental Health: Early intervention can help prevent the worsening of mental health issues and foster long-term well-being.
- Enhanced Coping Skills: Youth counseling provides young individuals with tools to manage stress and challenges more effectively.
- Better Relationships: Counseling can enhance communication and relationships with family and peers.

Services

To make your content engaging and relevant for young people, consider these strategies:

 

 

 1. Use Relatable Language

- Keep it conversational and avoid overly complex terms.

- Use humour, storytelling, and pop culture references.

- Address topics they care about, like social media, friendships, and school stress.

 

 2. Make It Visually Appealing

- Use engaging visuals—memes, infographics, and short-form videos.

- Break down information into bite-sized content (e.g., reels, slideshows).

- Consider interactive formats like quizzes or polls.

 

 3. Focus on Solutions, Not Just Problems

- Avoid just listing mental health challenges—empower them with actionable steps.

- Share coping techniques like mindfulness exercises, journaling, and creative hobbies.

- Highlight inspiring personal stories of resilience.

 

 4. Leverage Platforms They Already Use

- Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube are great for reaching younger audiences.

- Engage with comments, answer questions, and create a community space.

- Collaborate with influencers or educators who resonate with youth.

 

 5. Address Mental Health in Ways That Resonate

- Frame it in ways that feel relevant: self-esteem, relationships, academic pressure.

- Normalize discussions about emotions—use relatable scenarios.

- Encourage open conversations while offering anonymous support options.

 

 

 

 

My introduction – Sweeta W Somo

My goal is to help you with everything you need

WHATS LIFE ? IMPORTANT PARTS OF LIFE? IMPORTANCE OF CHURCH ?

WHAT’S the MOST IMPORTANT THING FOR YOU TODAY? WHAT IS YOUR WISH ? WHAT DO YOU WANT?

  • HEALTH

  • MONEY

  • LOVE

  • FAMILY

  • FRIENDS ?

HOW YOU GET THERE ?

 if you posess all sorts of health.

WHAT WILL HELP YOU ENJOY ALL THIS ?

YOUR GOOD HEALTH

TYPES OF HEALTH

  • MENTAL

  • PHYSICAL

  • SOCIAL

  • ECONOMICAL

  • SPIRITUAL

 

HOW WILL YOU GET THERE?

MORNING AFFIRMATIONS

WORK PLAN

SUPPORT NEEDED

BALANCE IN LIFE AND WHY IS IT NEEDED ?

TOO MUCH OF ANYTHING IS DANGEROUS

YOU GET BORED QUICKLY

 

What are we discussing today – MENTAL HEALTH – MIND HEALTH – EMOTIONS – BEHAVIOUR – FEELINGS – HEALING

 

What is Mental Health

Current Mental Health Challenges in the World for youth

Mental Health Survey in World and Australia

Mental health challenges

Increase in mental health issues recently

 

So what can we do about it ?

In my mental health studies I have learnt that

Currently there are these mental health issues in the world

I cannot cover all of them today, but I can discuss 3 major issues, their symptoms, effects and solutions in form of counselling or therapy.

Major issues are there

  1. Too much screen time – its not helpful, how it effects you and how to prevent it

  2. No hobby – Join Church and explore the activities you enjoy example art therapy

  3. Nobody to talk to – Talk to me

How to control yourself ?

Self Control – Not getting into addictions, anger, trauma etc

After effects of wrong decisions example addictions fails you in carrer, anger causes relationship harm, trauma effects you physically and emotionally.

 

  • NOT GETTING EMOTIONALLY ATTACHED TO ANYTHING IS VERY IMPORTANT

  • FOLLOWING PRINCIPLES IS IMPORTANT

  • READING YOUR AFFIRMATIONS EVERY MORNING IS IMPORTANT

  • PRACITISNG FAITH AND SPIRITUALITY IS IMPORTANT

  • GETTING INTO COMMUNITY IS IMPORTANT

  • HAVING A HOBBY IS IMPORTANT

  • HAVING GOOD FRIENDS AND GOOD ADVISOR IS IMPORTANT

  • GAINING KNOWLEDGE ON YOUR IMPORTANT TOPICS IS IMPORTANT

  • STUDY IS THE TOPMOST IMPORTANT

  • SETTING GOAL

  • LOOKING AFTER YOUR FITNESS, HEALTH BOTH MENTAL PHYSICAL EMOTIONAL AND SPIRITUAL

  • STAY AWAY FROM NEGATIVITY

  • WHAT YOU TALK HAPPENS, TALK POSITIVE

  • WHAT YOU THINK HAPPENS, THINK POSITIVE

  • DON’T TRUST ANYONE IN YOUR AGE GROUP

  • TAKE ADVICE FROM PEOPLE WHO ARE ATLEAST 10 YEARS ELDER TO YOU

  • DON’T COPY OTHERS

 

STAGES OF LIFE – BABY – YOUTH – ADULT – OLD

 

How we can help with therapies

 

 

PUBERTY ISSUES

Puberty is a major developmental phase that brings physical, emotional, and social changes. While it's a natural process, it can also come with challenges. Here are some common puberty related issues:

 

 1. Physical Changes & Body Image Concerns

 Growth spurts – Rapid height increase can cause awkwardness.

 Acne & skin issues – Hormonal changes lead to breakouts.

 Weight fluctuations – Some teens gain or lose weight, affecting self esteem

 Body hair growth – Pubic, facial, and underarm hair can feel unfamiliar.

 

 2. Emotional & Psychological Challenges

 Mood swings – Hormonal shifts cause irritability, sadness, or anxiety.

 Selfconsciousness – Feeling awkward about body changes.

 Identity struggles – Exploring personal values, gender identity, and selfworth.

 Peer pressure – Social expectations around appearance and behavior.

 

 3. Social & Relationship Issues

 Friendship changes – Shifting interests may lead to new social circles.

 Romantic feelings – Crushes and relationships become more significant.

 Bullying & teasing – Some teens face judgment over pubertyrelated changes.

 Family conflicts – Increased independence can lead to disagreements.

 

 4. Sexual Development & Education

 Menstruation & reproductive health – Understanding periods and hygiene.

 Sexual curiosity – Learning about relationships and boundaries.

 Consent & safety – Navigating healthy interactions and personal choices.

 

 5. Mental Health & Coping Strategies

 Stress & anxiety – Managing school, social life, and expectations.

 Depression risks – Some teens struggle with low mood or isolation.

 Healthy coping mechanisms – Exercise, mindfulness, and open conversations.

 

Puberty can be overwhelming, but education, support, and open discussions help young people navigate it confidently.

Children can experience a range of mental health challenges that impact their emotional well-being, behavior, and development. Here are some common mental health issues in children:

 

 1. Anxiety Disorders

 Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) – Excessive worry about everyday situations.

 Separation Anxiety – Fear of being away from caregivers.

 Social Anxiety – Intense fear of social interactions.

 Phobias – Extreme fear of specific objects or situations.

 

 2. Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

 Difficulty focusing, impulsivity, and hyperactivity affect school performance.

 

 3. Depression

 Persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, and changes in sleep or appetite.

 

 4. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

 Challenges with social interactions, communication, and sensory sensitivities.

 

 5. Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)

 Frequent anger, defiance, and difficulty following rules.

 

 6. Conduct Disorder

 Aggressive behavior, rulebreaking, and difficulty managing emotions.

 

 7. Eating Disorders

 Anorexia Nervosa – Extreme food restriction due to fear of weight gain.

 Bulimia Nervosa – Binge eating followed by purging.

 Binge Eating Disorder – Uncontrolled eating without purging.

 

 8. Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

 Trauma related distress, flashbacks, and emotional withdrawal.

 

 9. ObsessiveCompulsive Disorder (OCD)

 Repetitive thoughts and behaviors that interfere with daily life.

 

 10. Sleep Disorders

 Insomnia, nightmares, and irregular sleep patterns due to stress or anxiety.

 

 11. Self-Harm & Suicidal Thoughts

 Some children struggle with selfharm as a coping mechanism.

 Suicidal ideation requires immediate intervention and support.

 

 12. Learning Disabilities & Emotional Disorders

 Dyslexia, dyscalculia, and emotional regulation difficulties affecting school performance.

 

Mental health issues in children require early intervention, support systems, and professional help to ensure they can thrive.

 

Screen time on phones has become a major part of daily life, with people spending hours on their devices for work, entertainment, and social interactions. Here are some key insights:

 

 Average Screen Time

The global average screen time for adults (1664 years) is 6 hours and 58 minutes per day  

On smartphones alone, people spend around 3 hours and 43 minutes daily  

Australians spend over 6 hours a day on their mobile devices, with many checking their phones first thing in the morning and before bed

 

 Effects of Excessive Screen Time

 Mental Health Impact – Increased anxiety, stress, and difficulty focusing.

 Physical Health Issues – Eye strain, poor posture, and disrupted sleep patterns.

 Reduced Productivity – Frequent phone use can lead to distractions and lower efficiency.

 

 Screen Time Guidelines

 Children (517 years) – No more than 2 hours of recreational screen time per day (excluding schoolwork).

 Adults – Experts recommend taking breaks and setting limits to avoid excessive phone use.

 

 How to Reduce Screen Time

 Use Screen Time Tracking Apps – Monitor daily usage and set limits.

 Create NoPhone Zones – Avoid screens during meals and before bedtime.

 Engage in Offline Activities – Prioritize hobbies, exercise, and face-to-face interactions.

 

Mental health sessions and lectures for youth are essential in fostering awareness, resilience, and emotional wellbeing. Here are some effective approaches:

 

 1. School-Based Mental Health Programs

 2. Community & Online Workshops

 Helping Minds Workshops – Free mental health sessions covering mindfulness, coping strategies, and peer support.

 Suicide Prevention & Crisis Support – Programs like LifeSpan focus on reducing suicidal behavior and promoting mental health awareness  Suicide Prevention

 Digital Mental Health Platforms – Online lectures and interactive sessions for youth to access support remotely.

 

 3. Topics Covered in Youth Mental Health Sessions

 Understanding mental health and emotional wellbeing.

 Coping with stress, anxiety, and depression.

 Recognizing signs of mental health struggles in peers.

 Building resilience and selfcare habits.

 Seeking professional help and accessing support services.

 

 

There are several mental health sessions and lectures designed specifically for youth, focusing on awareness, resilience, and emotional wellbeing. Here are some notable programs:

 

 1. Youth Aware of Mental Health (YAM)

 Uses lectures, discussions, and roleplaying to improve mental health literacy.

 Helps youth develop problemsolving skills and recognize when to seek help.

 Delivered by accredited instructors and supported by the Black Dog Institute.

 

 2. Helping Minds Workshops

 Offers free workshops for youth, caregivers, and families.

 Covers mindfulness, peer support, and resiliencebuilding.

 Provides both inperson and online sessions to ensure accessibility.

 

 3. LifeSpan Suicide Prevention Program

 A communitybased initiative integrating multiple strategies to reduce suicide risk.

 YAM is part of this program, focusing on stress management, crisis intervention, and selfhelp advice  Suicide 

 

 4. Be You Mental Health Education

 A national initiative supporting mental health in schools.

 Provides educator training, student workshops, and mental health resources.

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 Mental Health Introduction Script for Youth

 

[Opening] 

*"Hi everyone! Before we dive in, I want to ask you a question: Have you ever had a tough day, felt overwhelmed, or just needed someone to talk to?* 

*If yes, guess what? You're not alone. Every single person experiences challenges with their mental health at some point—and that’s completely normal."*

 

[Understanding Mental Health] 

*"So, what exactly is mental health? It’s how we think, feel, and cope with life. Just like we take care of our bodies by eating healthy, exercising, and sleeping well, we need to take care of our minds too!"*

 

*"Sometimes we feel happy, excited, or confident. Other times, we might feel stressed, anxious, or even sad—and that's okay. Mental health isn’t just about avoiding problems; it’s about recognizing how we’re feeling and knowing that it’s okay to ask for help."*

 

[Common Challenges] 

*"Many young people face challenges like stress from school, social pressure, family struggles, or even anxiety and depression. The key is learning ways to manage these emotions and knowing where to turn if you need support."*

 

[Signs That Someone Might Be Struggling] 

*"Mental health issues don’t always look the same for everyone. Some common signs that someone might be struggling include:"* 

 Feeling overwhelmed or exhausted all the time. 

 Loss of interest in activities they used to love. 

 Withdrawing from friends and family. 

 Feeling anxious, hopeless, or sad for long periods. 

 Difficulty concentrating or struggling with motivation. 

 

*"If you ever notice these signs in yourself or someone else, it’s important to talk about it and seek support."*

 

[Healthy Coping Strategies] 

*"The good news? There are plenty of ways to take care of your mental health! Here are some strategies that can help:"* 

 Talk to someone you trust—friends, family, teachers, or counselors. 

 Practice mindfulness—deep breathing, meditation, or journaling. 

 Stay active—exercise can boost your mood and energy. 

 Prioritize sleep—your brain needs rest to function well. 

 Reduce stress—break tasks into smaller steps and avoid burnout. 

 

[Seeking Support & Breaking Stigma] 

*"One of the biggest challenges in mental health is stigma—the fear of judgment when asking for help. But guess what? Seeking help isn’t a weakness—it’s one of the bravest things you can do!"* 

 

*"If you ever need support, reach out. Whether it’s a friend, a teacher, a counselor, or even mental health resources like Lifeline or Headspace, help is always available."* 

 

[Closing] 

*"Today, we’ve talked about why mental health matters, how to recognize struggles, and ways to cope. Remember, mental health is just as important as physical health, and taking care of it should be a priority."* 

 

*"So, let’s work together to create an environment where it’s okay to talk about mental health, ask for help, and support one another!"*

 

 

 

Would you like me to personalize this script further, perhaps for a specific age group or audience? Let me know how I can refine it for your needs! 😊

 

Your anxious  because sports, bulleying

Mental health services in schools play a critical role in supporting youth by providing early intervention, education, and access to professional help. Here’s how they make a difference:

 

 1. Early Identification & Support

 Schools help identify mental health concerns early, preventing issues from escalating.

 Counselors and psychologists provide assessments and interventions for students struggling with anxiety, depression, or stress.

 

 2. Accessible Counseling & Therapy

 Many schools offer onsite counseling or partner with external mental health organizations.

 Programs like Be You (Beyond Blue) and Headspace School Support provide free mental health resources for students.

 

 3. Mental Health Education & Awareness

 Schools integrate mental health education into the curriculum, teaching students about emotional wellbeing.

 Programs like Youth Aware of Mental Health (YAM) use interactive workshops to help students develop coping skills.

 

 4. Peer Support & Community Engagement

 Schools encourage peerled mental health initiatives, where students support each other.

 Mental health clubs and studentled campaigns help reduce stigma and promote open conversations.

 

 5. Crisis Intervention & Suicide Prevention

 Schools work with organizations like Lifeline and Beyond Blue to provide crisis support.

 Programs like LifeSpan Suicide Prevention focus on reducing suicide risk among youth.

 

 6. Training for Teachers & Staff

 Educators receive mental health training to recognize signs of distress in students.

 Programs like NSW SchoolLink connect schools with health professionals to improve student wellbeing.

 

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I helped stdent in nz,c lient in uk, india, Australia

 

 

Mental health issues among youth are increasingly common and can significantly impact their wellbeing, education, and social interactions. Here are some of the most prevalent mental health challenges young people face:

 

 1. Anxiety Disorders 

 Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) – Persistent worry about everyday situations. 

 Social Anxiety – Fear of social interactions or being judged. 

 Panic Disorder – Sudden episodes of intense fear or panic attacks. 

 

 2. Depression 

 Major Depressive Disorder – Persistent sadness, loss of interest, and fatigue. 

 Situational Depression – Triggered by life events like academic pressure or family issues. 

 

 3. Eating Disorders 

 Anorexia Nervosa – Extreme food restriction due to fear of weight gain. 

 Bulimia Nervosa – Binge eating followed by purging. 

 Binge Eating Disorder – Uncontrolled eating without purging. 

 

 4. AttentionDeficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) 

 Difficulty focusing, impulsivity, and hyperactivity affecting school performance. 

 

 5. SelfHarm & Suicidal Thoughts 

 Many young people struggle with selfharm as a coping mechanism. 

 Suicidal ideation is a serious concern, requiring immediate intervention. 

 

 6. Substance Abuse & Addiction 

 Use of alcohol, drugs, or vaping as a way to cope with stress or peer pressure. 

 

 7. Trauma & PTSD 

 Exposure to bullying, abuse, or violence can lead to PostTraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). 

 

 8. Body Image & SelfEsteem Issues 

 Social media and societal pressures contribute to negative selfimage and low confidence. 

 

 9. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) & Neurodivergence 

 Challenges with social interactions, sensory sensitivities, and emotional regulation. 

 

 10. Sleep Disorders 

 Insomnia and irregular sleep patterns due to stress, screen time, or anxiety. 

 

Mental health issues in youth require early intervention, support systems, and professional help to ensure they can thrive. 

 

 

Common Mental Health Issues in Youth Across Australia

The mental health of children, teenagers, and young adults is supposed to lay a healthy foundation for their futures. However, common mental health issues facing the youth of today point in the opposite direction: before the age of 25, young people are estimated to have experienced about 75% of mental health issues.

 

According to the headspace National Youth Mental Health Survey, rates of psychological distress remained high among Australian young people in 2021. It’s estimated that one in three (34%) of young people report high levels of distress.

 

When left untreated, these issues may unfortunately damage the development of a number of indispensable skills, including social and communication skills.

 

A thorough understanding about youth mental health issues as well as how to approach a struggling teen or young adult is vital for their recovery. In this article, we’ll go over common mental health issues and their symptoms, as well as what causes them and how to solve them.

 

common mental health issues in youth young people at a picnic

 

The 7 most common mental health issues in youth today

 

Depression

 

In Australia, around 20% of young people will have an episode of depression in a 12month period. A common cause of depression stems from the pressures of youth; good grades, getting a job, or fitting into a certain group of friends. The failure to achieve those things may result in feelings of worthlessness and sadness. However, there also may be a heritable factor involved.

 

Common symptoms of depression include:

 

Lasting feelings of sadness.

Crying spells.

Loss of interest in daily and enjoyable activities.

Changes in sleeping patterns.

Treatment may involve a combination of talk therapy (psychotherapy), and antidepressant medications under the supervision of a mental health professional.

 

Anxiety

 

One in 14 Australian children and young people aged 4 to 17 years experience an anxiety disorder of some kind. A number of factors can lead up to anxiety in youth, such as barriers and high expectations set by family, peers, and teachers. Stressful or traumatic events and a person’s family history may also play a significant role in the escalation of anxious behaviour.

 

People learn to cope with emotions like stress and fear differently during their early years. The way they were taught to deal with those emotions as children, for instance, may interfere in how they deal with them throughout teenage years and into early adulthood.

 

Common symptoms of anxiety include:

 

Chronic worries about future events.

Extreme worries about daily activities.

Trouble focusing.

Headaches and/or stomachaches.

Withdrawal from social groups or activities.

For anxiety, cognitivebehaviour therapy (CBT) works particularly well. In more serious cases, a combination of CBT and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may yield better results. There are other medication alternatives that should be discussed with a mental health professional.

 

ADHD

 

In Australia, ADHD affects approximately 281,200 children and adolescents aged 0 to 19. Although the true root cause of ADHD remains unclear, the disorder appears to be a combination of the environment a child has grown up in – as well as their genetic predisposition to the disorder. According to KidsHealth, most young people with ADHD have a parent or relative who also suffers with it.

 

Common ADHD symptoms include:

 

Impulsive behaviour.

Constant fidgeting.

Trouble focusing.

Lack of organisation.

A combination of psychotherapy and stimulant medication, when suggested by a mental health professional, works effectively as an ADHD treatment.

 

young people at the park common mental health issues in youth

 

Behaviour problems

 

Research from the Australian Institute of Health and Wellness shows that 26% of young people aged 15 to 24 reported having any longterm mental or behavioural issue. But that’s not all: genetic factors also play a role in behavioural problems other than ADHD.

 

Behavioural conditions may stem from external issues like family problems, trauma, abuse, and bullying at in the school environment.

 

Common symptoms of behavioural problems include:

 

A tendency to be disrespectful towards parents and other family members.

Explosive behaviour (violent and aggressive).

Recurring mood swings.

Talking back.

Until a root cause has been established for the behavioural issue in question, talk therapy can be helpful for patients to talk freely about one’s issues.

 

Eating disorders

 

The Australian Child and Adolescent Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing estimated that 2.4% of young people aged 11 to 17 reported having problematic eating behaviours. Despite their manifestation being through a bad relationship with food, eating disorders are still psychological disorders.

 

Teenagers and young adults are more at risk for this type of behaviour due to a number of causes. Body image dissatisfaction, often caused by a tendency to reach unachievable body “goals”, is one of them. Childhood trauma has also shown a strong link with eating disorders in later years, and other mental health issues like anxiety and depression may also overlap. Genetics may also play a role in the likelihood of someone developing a foodrelated disorder.

 

Common symptoms of eating disorders include:

 

Meal skipping.

Frequent weighing.

Hair loss.

Unusual eating habits, like binge eating.

Treatments may include psychotherapy, as well as enrolment in comprehensive eating disorders treatment programs.

 

Psychosis

 

The first episodes of psychosis often happen in a person’s late teens or early adult years, often in their late teens to midtwenties. As an estimate, 1 in every 200 Australians will experience a psychotic illness each year.

 

Psychosis is an issue – a symptom, to be more specific –  but it’s not an illness. It is, however, triggered by mental illnesses, physical injuries, extreme stress, or trauma. Alcohol, drug abuse, and the use of certain medications may contribute to the occurrence of psychotic episodes. As a reminder, substance abuse could be a coping mechanism for other issues, like anxiety and depression.

 

Common symptoms of psychosis include:

 

An inability to express emotions.

Detached behaviour that seems far from reality.

Withdrawal from friends and family.

Difficulty with maintaining meaningful relationships with family and friends.

Cognitivebehavioural therapy (CBT) and antipsychotic medication may be the best course of treatment for young patients.

 

Suicidal Thoughts

 

In 2020, The Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (LSAC) stated that young people aged 14 to 17 reported on suicidal thoughts and behaviours experienced in the previous 12 months. Approximately 17% of those young people had thought about taking their own life at some point.

 

There are several reasons that may result in suicidal ideation in youth. Some of them include but aren’t limited to: loss of an important person, child abuse, mental health disorders, family history of mental disorders, drug use, and exposure to family violence.

 

Common symptoms of suicidal ideation include:

 

Withdrawal from social relationships.

Talking/writing about suicide, phrases such as “I’d be better off dead”.

An increase in alcohol or drug consumption.

Becoming depressed.

 

 

Treatment options include hospitalisation and medical treatment for underlying mental disorders (such as major depression). A type of psychotherapy called dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) has shown to be effective in reducing suiciderelated behavior in adults and adolescents.

 

young woman common mental health issues in youth

 

A Word on Mental Health Issues in the LGBT Community

 

The LGBT youth undergo and experience issues that will, unfortunately, affect their mental health and wellbeing at a higher rate than their heterosexual peers. They’re the main targets of discriminatory behaviour such as homophobia, namecalling, tormenting, and even physical violence – all of which makes them more susceptible to developing mental health issues.

 

It remains crucial that people learn about how the LGBT community can be affected by these problems, and what they can do to help.

 

For more information read about the Mental Health Issues in LGBT Youth.

 

What Resources are Available to Youth with Mental Health Issues?

 

There are various support services available to young people with mental health issues. Only in Australia, there are several mental health organisations that are 100% focused on guiding youth toward a healthy recovery. To get instant contact to one or more of these organisations, visit our guide for youth mental health organisations.

 

young people at sunset common mental health issues in youth

 

How can Youth Mental Health First Aid Help?

 

Common youth mental health issues include depression, anxiety, ADHD, eating disorders, behavioural problems, and suicidal thoughts. There often are more complex underlying causes to these issues, which can only be explored and treated with the help of a licensed mental health professional.

 

If not addressed early in life, youth mental health problems will manifest in all areas of adulthood. For this reason, adults must take immediate action when any of these problems have been medically and psychologically identified by professionals in order to learn and discuss these issues  more freely and without stigma.

 

Programs like The Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) work with evidencebased strategies and are essential in increasing the chances of an adolescent’s mental health improving in the longterm.

 

Enrol in a Youth Mental Health First Aid Course!

 

The more comfortable a young person is with their mental health, the easier it will be for them to talk about it when something feels wrong.

 

And the sooner they speak up, the sooner they’ll find the right treatment for them. With MHFA courses, their mental health issues will become easier to deal with. Not only for them, but for everyone who’s a part of their lives.

 

For instant access to our support services and first aid training for youth mental health, visit our enrolment page. You can also see our full range of services here.

Education

2015-2017

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Mind Reader centers and services are found all over Australia. They are in cities, regional areas, and rural places. These centers help young people and their families keep good mental health and stay involved in the community. The Mind Reader National Youth Mental Health Foundation is committed to child safety.

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Mind Reader acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as Australia’s First Peoples and Traditional Custodians. We value their cultures, identities, and continuing connection to land, water, kin, and community. We pay our respects to Elders past and present and are dedicated to contributing positively to the wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people, providing services that are welcoming, safe, culturally appropriate, and inclusive.

 

 

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Mind Reader is dedicated to embracing diversity and eliminating discrimination in health services. Mind Reader welcomes all individuals regardless of ethnicity, lifestyle choices, faith, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

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