WEDNESDAY, 23 OCTOBER 2024: Australian teenagers are grappling with unprecedented mental health challenges, with new research¹ from HCF, Australia’s largest not-for-profit health fund, showing nearly half of parents are noticing troubling changes in their children's emotional wellbeing.

The survey, conducted by YouGov, found 49% of parents with high school-aged children reported concerns over their teen’s mental health in the past year, with anxiety and depression becoming increasingly common. The research highlights the growing pressure teenagers face, from academic stress and social media influences to the long-term effects of the pandemic.

Linda Opie, Head of Health and Wellbeing at HCF, stressed the urgency of addressing the issue: “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.”

“By offering convenient access to a range of mental health services and family support, we can empower families to choose what’s right for them to effectively navigate these difficult situations,” Ms Opie said, noting the availability of professionally led and science-backed digital mental health services, such as online cognitive behavioural therapy, continues to grow.

Among the study's alarming findings, 29% of teenagers have been diagnosed with a mental health or neurodevelopmental condition, with anxiety being the most common (17%). Adding to the complexity, more than 70% of parents admit their teens are not meeting the recommended daily 30 minutes of physical activity – a key factor closely tied to mental wellbeing.

A Wake-Up Call for Parents

The mental health crisis isn’t just affecting teenagers; it’s having a profound impact on families as well. One in four parents surveyed said their child has missed school or been late at least once a month due to mental health challenges, including one in seven who reported it happening weekly.  This, in turn, is straining family dynamics, with nearly 90% of parents acknowledging their teen’s mental health struggles have disrupted their family’s daily life.

Worryingly, the survey also revealed 30% of parents attribute their teen’s mental health challenges to irregular sleep patterns or lack of sleep, reinforcing the critical connection between sleep and emotional wellbeing. And 22% of parents believe bullying or harassment has contributed to their child’s mental health issues, further complicating their ability to cope.

Stuart Langley, a psychologist specialising in anxiety, depression and complex trauma, explains how parents can navigate these difficult conversations. “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 concerns—withdrawal, mood swings, sleep disruptions—and act before they worsen. Open communication is key.”

Stuart adds that while it can be difficult to differentiate between typical teenage behaviour and something more serious, early intervention can prevent long-term emotional or psychological damage. “Encouraging open dialogue with your teen, maintaining structured routines, and seeking professional help early are critical steps.”

Families Feeling the Strain

For many families, the challenges of managing a teenager’s mental health are all-encompassing. Over a third of parents reported increased stress and tension within the household, while others noted strained relationships with their children, changes in daily routines, and even financial strain from seeking mental health support.

One particularly troubling statistic revealed 43% of parents admitted they had personally experienced mental health struggles in the past year due to the stress of caring for their teenager. Despite this, one in five parents said they haven’t sought any support for themselves, with some indicating they don’t even know where to find help.

To support parents navigating these challenges, HCF has partnered with mental health organisations to provide a range of resources, from digital tools and online therapy to access to professional mental health services.

“We’re committed to supporting not only our members but all Australian families,” said Ms Opie. “That’s why 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.”

“This Way Up, a not-for-profit online hub developed by experienced psychiatrists and clinical psychologists, also offers a range of evidence-based programs and practical resources. The cognitive behavioural therapy courses help you understand and develop coping strategies to manage mental health challenges like stress, insomnia, worry, anxiety, and depression,” Ms Opie said.

“Just as we schedule regular physical check-ups to stay on top of our health, it’s important we treat mental health check-ins with the same priority. Ensuring both physical and mental wellbeing are monitored is key for overall health,” added Ms Opie.

Eligible HCF members can access one free mental health check-in annually with a PSYCH2U psychologist, as well as rebates on This Way Up programs using their extras cover.

“By reaching out for help, parents can take the first step towards supporting their child's and their own mental wellbeing," said Ms Opie.

For those needing immediate support, the below services are available to provide guidance and assistance to both parents and teens.

·       Lifeline on 13 11 14

·       Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800

·       MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978

·       Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467

·       Beyond Blue on 1300 22 46 36

·       Headspace on 1800 650 890

·       QLife on 1800184527

ENDS

Media enquiries to:

Joni Thomes 0475 576 738 or jthomes@hcf.com.au

REFERENCES:
1. HCF Parents Survey: Mental Health of High School-Aged Children conducted online by YouGov between February 23-27, 2024, comprising a nationally representative sample of 502 Australian parents with at least one high school-aged child at home. Data was weighted by age, gender, and region to reflect the latest ABS population estimates. All statistical data is subject to margins of error associated with sample-based information.

ABOUT HCF
HCF, Australia’s largest not-for-profit health fund protecting Australians since 1932, covers almost 2 million members with health and life insurance, travel, pet, home and car insurance. HCF has been awarded Outstanding Value Health Insurance by Canstar nine years in a row from 2016-2024. On average over the last ten years, HCF has paid out more cents in every dollar in premiums to members as benefits than the industry average. ^**To learn more about HCF go to hcf.com.au/about-us

** 89.2% compared to 85.6% across the industry. Calculated based on the average of the past 10 years, sourced from APRA Statistics: Private Health Insurance Operations Reports 2014-23.