Australian Bureau Statistics (ABS, 2007)shares statistics that reveal 26% of people aged 16-24 have a mental disorder in any given year. Data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (2011) show that only 1 out of 3 of those young people affected will utilize mental health services.

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Being an adolescent It is important to talk to an adult you trust about how you’re feeling. This could be a teacher, the school counsellor or a GP. You might think that your problem or worry is something only you are experiencing, but you’ll find that lots of people can share the same problems and feelings. There isn’t something wrong with you!

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If you don’t have someone you can talk to, I have listed some great places you can get in touch with for support. They have very friendly people who are there to talk to you about what’s happening. They also have information and resources on their websites about mental health and other concerns young people may have. Everyone needs to get support at some time in their lives, so please contact the places below and have a chat.

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eheadspace – www.eheadspace.org.au or 1800 650 890

Kids Helpline – www.kidshelpline.com.au or 1800 55 1800

youth beyondblue – www.youthbeyondblue.com or 1300 224 636