Round:8 August 2009
‘Normal’ teenage behaviour or something to worry about?
Adolescence is a time of change and for many parents it can be difficult to distinguish between ‘normal ups and downs’ of the teenage years and the symptoms of a more serious mental and emotional health issue. There are many myths about depression and anxiety in young people, but the reality is that feeling sad, irritable or anxious most of the time is not a ‘normal’ part of adolescence. Current statistics suggest that as many as one in four young people aged between 16-24 have depression and one in 20 13-17 year olds experience anxiety.
Just like adults, the warning signs of mental illness for young people can vary greatly between individuals, however, some of the more common signs include:
- Changes in sleep patterns; having trouble falling or staying asleep
- Being tired, irritable and tearful most of the time
- Feeling restless, keyed up or on edge
- Loss of interest in things that they normally enjoy
- Loss of concentration and easily distracted
- Changes in eating habits and weight
- Becoming withdrawn and losing friends
- Complaining of feeling physically awful, with unexplained aches and pains.
Starting the conversation: Parents may find it difficult to talk with their child about their concerns, or to suggest they may need professional help. The young person may be confused and scared about how they are feeling and may be angry when parents try to discuss this with them. Try approaching the subject in a safe and quiet place, at a time you know you will not be disturbed. Remain calm and ask open ended questions to try to better understand what is ‘going on for them’. When young people have depression or anxiety, it doesn’t help to pressure them to ‘snap out of it’ or ‘cheer up’ and you can’t assume that the problem will go away without help. As well as offering your support and showing that you understand and care, it’s a good idea to encourage your son or daughter to eat healthily, be active, and get enough sleep.
Getting help for your teenager: A good place to start is with your GP. Teenagers may prefer that you go with them to the appointment for support, but they may also need time alone with the GP to talk about things they many not feel comfortable mentioning in front of you. Teenagers who resist seeing someone may prefer to call Lifeline (13 11 14) or Kids Help Line (1800 55 1800), as this is anonymous and can be less confronting. Young people can learn about other young people’s experiences with depression and anxiety on the Reach Outwebsite
Getting help for you: It’s important for parents to take care of themselves too. Learning more about depression and anxiety will give you a better understanding of what your child is experiencing. Helpful contacts include: Parentline NSW - 1300 1300 52 or and beyondblue
Greater Southern Area Health Service thanks Tana Cuming, Youth Development Officer, Greater Hume, Lockhart and Urana Shire Councils for preparing the information contained in this week’s newsletter.
(Adapted from information on and websites)
Sow the seeds of good mental health. Reap the benefits……
For advice, information and assistance relating to mental wellbeing or drought, or for strategies to help a friend, family or community member, please contact:
- Your doctor or other health professional
- The 24 hour, free NSW Rural Mental Health Support Line – 1800 201 123
- In an emergency dial ‘000’ and your local Hospital Emergency Department
- Department of Primary Industries Drought Hotline - 1800 814 647
- Centrelink Drought Assistance line - 13 23 16
- Beyondblue – the national depression initiative –