A recent study reveals that mental health problems are increasing among Australian high school students, with nearly one in four reporting symptoms by Year 10. The situation is particularly severe for girls and gender-diverse teens, who face higher rates of depression, anxiety, and psychological distress compared to boys.
The study, published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health, tracked over 6,500 students annually from Year 7 (ages 12-13) to Year 10 (ages 15-16) across 71 schools in New South Wales, Queensland, and Western Australia. Although not fully representative nationally, the research offers important insight into teen mental health trends.
Findings show that symptoms of mental health issues rise steadily through early high school years. In Year 7, 17% of students showed probable depression, climbing to 28% by Year 10. Similarly, psychological distress rose from 14% to 24%, and moderate-to-severe anxiety increased from 16% to 24% over the same period.
The study also examined social factors affecting mental health. Girls and gender-diverse teens reported significantly higher symptoms than boys at the start, with even sharper increases over four years. By Year 10, girls had depression scores 88% higher than boys, anxiety 34% higher, and psychological distress 55% higher. Gender-diverse teens showed even greater disparities, with depression scores 121% higher, anxiety 55% higher, and distress 89% higher than male peers.
Socioeconomic status and school advantage also influenced mental health. Teens from less affluent families and those attending disadvantaged schools reported higher levels of depression and anxiety. Notably, girls from the lowest-income groups experienced a compounded risk, facing higher anxiety and depression beyond what affluence or gender alone would predict.
While the study covered many factors, it did not explore all social influences, such as the mental health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth or those in remote areas. Still, these findings align with other research, including a 2015 study that found 14.4% of Australian adolescents aged 12 to 17 had a mental disorder in the past year. Rising mental health problems may reflect broader generational effects, possibly linked to social media, climate change, and the COVID-19 pandemic, although no single cause explains the trend.
The gender gap in mental health is a global issue, supported by international studies. Experts stress the importance of early prevention and targeted support to reduce these disparities. Factors contributing to the gender divide include gender-based violence, lifestyle differences, societal pressures on girls, family relationships, and biological factors like hormones.
Addressing these complex issues requires comprehensive investment and policy focus. The National Women’s Health Strategy highlights some key areas, and the current government has pledged increased attention to women’s health. However, the study emphasizes that gender-diverse teens need equal consideration in mental health initiatives.
To create effective solutions, experts recommend involving young people in designing mental health programs. Tailoring support to girls, gender-diverse youth, and socioeconomically disadvantaged teens can provide culturally sensitive, affirming care. This approach helps young people feel understood and supported, essential for improving their mental health.
Related Topics
