A new study has revealed a worrying mental health crisis among Australian teenagers. It revealed that nearly three-quarters (75%) of teens are experiencing significant symptoms of depression or anxiety.

The research, led by the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute (MCRI) and published in The Lancet Psychiatry, highlights the urgent need for preventive strategies beyond clinical care.

The study found that 64% of teens reported experiencing long-term mental health symptoms three or more times between the ages of 10 and 18.

The findings underscore the long-term impact of mental health issues during adolescence, which can impact overall well-being in adulthood.

“These are surprising findings, particularly given how these recurring symptoms impact young people’s functioning and lead to lasting health consequences,” said Dr Ellie Robson of MCRI.

Girls are more at risk

The research followed 1,239 Melbourne children enrolled in the Child to Adult Transition Study (CATS). It tracked their mental health from childhood to adolescence.

Girls were found to be more vulnerable, with 84% experiencing depression or anxiety at least once during adolescence compared to 61% of boys.

Affected girls were also more likely to suffer long-term symptoms, at 72% compared to 49% of boys.

The study also showed that symptoms of anxiety and depression often peak during periods of high stress, such as the transition from primary to secondary school, exam season and the end of schooling.

Importantly, 75% of teens struggling with mental health problems during the COVID-19 pandemic already displayed symptoms, indicating that the problem extends beyond pandemic-related stress.

preventive measures

MCRI Professor Susan Sawyer highlighted the global significance of the findings, noting that the study reports the highest incidence of mental health problems in adolescence to date.

“If every young person sought help, this level of mental health challenges would overwhelm even the best-resourced health systems,” Professor Sawyer said. “We urgently need to invest in preventive strategies that address the onset and persistence of depression and anxiety.”

Dr Robson said the modern psychosocial environment, made up of greater mental health awareness and less stigma, may influence the way teenagers experience and report symptoms.

The study is part of a wider effort to understand mental health challenges among young Australians. ZENVI, one of the world’s largest birth and parent cohort studies, is tracking the health of almost 50,000 babies and their families in Victoria.

The purpose of this research is to learn more about the mental health challenges facing today’s youth and to guide future interventions.