Kids & Anxiety: These statistics may alarm you
According to a recent national survey of the mental health and wellbeing of Australian children and adolescents, half of all the mental health conditions we experience at some point in our lives will have started by age 14.
This brief summary, which includes a link to the comprehensive national study, is important reading for parents and teachers.
The Second Australian Child and Adolescent Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing (Young Minds Matter) was designed to provide current information about the mental health and wellbeing of children and adolescents in Australia.
How many kids are affected?
The study, which was conducted in 2013-2014 and released in 2015, revealed that:
* 6.9% of Australian kids are affected by Anxiety Disorders such as:
- Social phobia
- Separation anxiety disorder
- Generalised anxiety disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
* 2.8% of Australian children and adolescents are diagnosed with a major Depressive Disorder.
* 5.4% of Australian kids have been identified as having ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
* 2.1% of young Australians, including children, have a diagnosis of a Conduct Disorder
One in 7 kids are affected
Overall, the study discovered that almost one in seven (13.9%) of Australian kids aged 4-17 experienced at least one of the above mental health conditions in the 12 months prior to the study.
Some struggled with more than one.
This is equivalent to 560,000 Australian kids.
Young minds matter
This ‘Young Minds Matter’ study revealed much about the impact on children’s mental health on their education, family relationships and general well-being.
The implications for parents and teachers are clear…
Supporting awareness of children’s mental health and access to early intervention is vital for Australia’s children.
Read the full report
Follow this link to read The Mental Health of Children and Adolescents: Report on the Second Australian Child and Adolescent Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing
Does your child struggle with Anxiety, Depression or ADHD?
Kids First’s experienced psychologists have helped hundreds of children and families in Sydney’s northern beaches
We offer confidential, personal counseling for children, parents, and caregivers, as well as the popular Cool Kids and Chill’d small group program for anxious children aged 8 to 14.
Contact Kids First Children’s Services on 9938 5419 to chat about your child’s needs, or click on the image below to connect with us online.
