Mental health check for those heading to school

As young people head into a new school year with the pressures of study and relationships, headspace is encouraging families to regularly check in with their young people to support their mental health.

There are three headspace centres on the Central Coast – Gosford, Wyong and Lake Haven.

New findings from the first-ever National Family Mental Health Survey released recently reveal the issues Australian families believe are most impacting their young person’s mental health is social media (52%) online bullying (28%) and body image (26%) are identified as the top three issues impacting young people.

Three in four (74%) of family members said they believed the mental health of young people today was significantly more impacted compared to when they were young themselves.

Many families are already taking natural opportunities to check in with their young people.

Those surveyed said they regularly discussed ways of coping with stress or pressure (62%) and topics relating to school or work (59%) with their young people, with the most popular place to have these mental health chats being in the car (48%).

However, headspace is encouraging all parents, carers and family members to ensure they’re making time to chat to their young person during this period.

headspace’s National Clinical Advisor Deb Mountjoy said family was an important source of support for young people, particularly at the start of a new school or work year.

This includes those transitioning from primary to secondary school, or into further study or the workforce.

“The start of a new year can be really exciting, however it’s also a time of change, so some young people can also feel nervous, uncertain or unsure about what the year will hold,” Mountjoy said.

“Facing the challenge of a different environment and routine, making new friends and managing schoolwork can also bring uncertainty.

“We encourage parents and families to regularly check in with their young people over the coming weeks to see how they’re feeling.

“It can also be helpful to prepare for going back to school or work, such as working out a healthy routine that balances study, social life, self-care and family time.

“While it’s normal to have a range of emotions during this time of change and transition, it can be helpful to reach out for support if you continue to feel concerned about your young person’s wellbeing.

“This might also include concerns about their physical health including difficulties sleeping, eating or a loss of enjoyment in daily activities.”

Support for young people aged 12 to 25 who require support with their mental health is available via phone and online counselling service eheadspace seven days a week between 9am and 1am.

The number is 1800 650 890.

If you’re looking for someone to talk to immediately, Lifeline (13 11 14), Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800), and 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) are available to talk 24/7.