teenagers mental health & parent support

Teenage mental health challenges are on the rise in Australia, with more young people experiencing complex issues.

Our psychotherapy and counselling practice provides compassionate support and evidence-based treatments to help teens and their families navigate these difficulties and develop better life skills.

Psychological Distress in Teenagers

Statistics show that young people aged 16-24 experience the highest rates of psychological distress among all age groups in our population. Anxiety disorders and depression, both mental and behavioural conditions, are the most common mental health concerns among teenagers.

However, teens often feel shame and embarrassment, making it difficult for them to talk openly about their problems. At Bloom Psychology Practice on the Northern Beaches, we have qualified psychotherapists and counsellors experienced in working with young people and their families.

As mental health professionals, we strongly believe that early intervention is crucial. Many teenagers find it challenging to discuss their issues with friends and family. Without proper support, teens experiencing problems may develop negative patterns of thinking and behaviour. This can lead to increased suicide risk, drug and alcohol misuse, and disruption to their psychological wellbeing, educational progress, and social development.

Teenage Trauma

Approximately two-thirds of teenagers have been exposed to at least one traumatic event by the time they reach 16. Multiple and prolonged exposure to trauma is also common. Trauma can include bullying, friendship breakdowns, separation and divorce, parental conflict, a car accident, or the death of a loved one. It is important to know that an experience does not have to be life-threatening to be traumatic.

Trauma usually involves a sense of confusion, fear, and an inability to understand and cope with what has or is happening. Teenagers process trauma differently compared to adults because their brains are still developing. This means that the types of things that teenagers experience as traumatic, and how they understand them, can be very different from adults.

Traumatic experiences can shake our belief in safety or trust in others. Sometimes we have flashbacks or persistent memories and thoughts about the event. These feelings may resolve within a few weeks or months; however, if symptoms persist for long periods of time, early intervention is critical

Social Anxiety

Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) affects approximately 1 in 3 adolescents aged 13 to 18. This disorder is characterised by an intense and ongoing fear of being judged, embarrassed, or scrutinised by others. Adolescence is a time when self-awareness is heightened, and peer influence becomes especially powerful, making it a sensitive stage for social development. Studies show that teenagers, more than children or adults, experience greater distress and anxiety following peer rejection, which can lower mood and intensify feelings of social anxiety.

With the growing influence of social media and new ways to communicate, teens today face added pressures around body image, social acceptance, and interactions with peers. Common signs of social anxiety in adolescents include:

  • Fear of being judged or embarrassed by others
  • Worry about being a burden or inconvenience
  • Harsh self-criticism after social encounters
  • Difficulty speaking to peers or authority figures
  • Feeling uncomfortable or self-conscious in new social situations
  • Excessive worry before social or public events
  • Avoiding public places or social gatherings
  • Struggles to form and maintain friendships
  • Physical symptoms like sweating, shaking, stomach aches, or a racing heart in social settings
  • Withdrawing from social interactions and becoming more reserved

What are the signs of anxiety in Teenagers?

Bloom Psychotherapists and counsellors encourage parents to help their teenagers get psychological treatment and support. During the first appointment, teenagers receive information about the service, are assessed, and confirm their understanding and agreement to the treatment. Any exceptions to their privacy and confidentiality will be explained and are published on this website. This ensures transparency and builds trust in the therapeutic relationship.

Confidentiality

If you are in crisis or require urgent care please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or call 000 for an ambulance.