New research from HCF has revealed that nearly half of Australian parents report mental health concerns for their teenage children, highlighting increases in anxiety, depression, and related challenges that impact both school performance and family life.
The survey, conducted by YouGov, indicated that 49% of parents with high school-aged children are concerned about their teens’ mental wellbeing.
Parents cited academic stress, social media, and the ongoing effects of COVID-19 as significant factors contributing to mental health challenges among young people.
Linda Opie, head of health and wellbeing at HCF, said the findings underscore the urgency of providing support to families.
“Parents are witnessing firsthand the emotional toll these pressures are taking on their teens. It’s essential we raise awareness and make mental health resources more accessible to families, so these issues can be addressed early,” she said.
According to the study, 29% of teenagers have been diagnosed with a mental health or neurodevelopmental condition, with anxiety being the most prevalent.
Additionally, the research showed that over 70% of teens fall short of the recommended daily 30 minutes of physical activity – a factor closely tied to mental wellbeing.
Psychologist Stuart Langley, who specialises in anxiety and depression, advised parents to look for warning signs like withdrawal, mood swings, and disrupted sleep patterns.
“Teenagers are under immense pressure, whether it’s academic expectations or social media comparisons. But it’s important for parents to recognise the early signs of mental health concern nu
withdrawal, mood swings, [and] sleep disruptions – and act before they worsen. Open communication is key,” he said.
The study found that mental health issues among teens also create strains on family dynamics and affect school attendance.
One in four parents reported that their teen’s mental health led to school absences or tardiness at least once a month, while 14% said this happened weekly. These disruptions impact daily life, with nearly 90% of parents noting that mental health concerns affect their family routines.
Parents also pointed to other stressors, including poor sleep and bullying. About 30% of parents said their child’s mental health struggles are tied to irregular sleep, and 22% cited bullying as a contributing factor.
In response to these findings, HCF has partnered with mental health organisations to offer a range of support services, from online mental health resources to professional counselling.
“We’ve expanded our mental health cover, making it easier for families to access the care they need, whether it’s in-person consultations with a psychologist or online cognitive behavioural therapy,” Opie said.
Eligible HCF members can now access one free annual mental health check-in with a PSYCH2U psychologist. Members can also receive support through programs like “This Way Up,” which provides cognitive behavioural therapy resources focused on managing stress, anxiety, and related mental health challenges.
Another recent HCF research indicated that mental health challenges extend to primary school-aged children as well.
More than one-third of parents reported that their primary school children experience distress related to school, with 24% stating this occurs weekly. Parents noted tardiness, partial attendance, or full-day absences related to mental health issues.
Clinical psychologist Rebecca Short explained that reluctance or refusal to attend school can stem from various factors, including neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.
