Understanding Mental Health Awareness Among Australian Teens

"Knowledge and awareness are key to slowing the development of mental health issues in Australian teens"

A recent blog written by Torrens University Australia dives deep into the complexities surrounding Australian teens and how they perceive and handle mental health challenges. Associate Professor Fahad Hanna and Dr. Hirukshi Bennett, offer profound insight into the factors shaping young people's mental health awareness.

The study uncovered a significant difference in mental health awareness and support among Australian teens. It revealed that girls exhibit greater proficiency in identifying depression compared to boys, who tend to demonstrate "reduced help-seeking attitudes" and are more susceptible to mental health problems. LGBTQIA+ teens frequently encounter mental health challenges, highlighting the need for "more support from schools and communities", while teens from diverse cultural backgrounds may confront "unique challenges related to mental health, including shame and stigma". Rural areas also demonstrated a heightened mental health risk due to the limited access to resources as well as adolescents with parents grappling with mental health conditions themselves. The research focuses attention to the pivotal role schools can play by fostering a supportive environment for both students and teachers.

Insights from Professor Hanna

Talked had the opportunity to ask Professor Hanna some pressing questions surrounding teen mental health. Here is a glimpse into what we discussed and the insights shared:

What are the long-term consequences of low mental health literacy in teens, and how can early intervention mitigate these effects?

Professor Hanna emphasised that low mental health (MH) literacy can lead to delayed recognition of MH issues among teens. This delay can exacerbate problems, making treatment more challenging. Early interventions are crucial as they can prevent the progression of MH issues, "making it relatively easier" to manage and treat effectively.

How do cultural differences within Australia affect the perception and understanding of mental health issues among teens?

"In some cultures, MH is not recognised or MH issues are taboos and it is "not cool" to have mental health issues so it is unlikely that young people will be coming forward seeking help with MH issues. In some cultures having mental health issues can be shameful."

In what ways can teachers be better equipped to address and improve mental health literacy in their classrooms?

Teachers play a pivotal role in the lives of teens. Professor Hanna suggested that additional training for teachers can empower them to detect early signs of MH issues in their students. Schools, being environments where teens spend a significant amount of time, "can be used effectively to address and resolve issues that teens tend to experience whether it is due to their home environments or issues at school such as bullying and so on".

How does the stigma associated with mental health issues vary between different communities, and what approaches can reduce this stigma effectively?

"Generally speaking, traditions and cultures play roles in stigma. Communities with deep cultures and beliefs may see MH issues differently compared with communities that are less traditional and more open-minded and education plays a significant role in these situations. Culturally and linguistically diverse communities see mental health issues as an embarrassment and members of that community may refrain from seeking help."

What role do peer support networks play in enhancing mental health literacy and support among teens?

Professor Hanna highlighted the importance of community-based organisations that educate and train teens and parents about MH. "Young people can work with young people to reduce stigma and encourage teens to come forward and ask for help."

Where to find out more

To find out more you can read the full article on the Torrens University website and find learn more about Prof Hanna on his Torrens profile page.