A new national study reveals that female teenagers and gender-diverse adolescents in Australia are experiencing the highest rates of anxiety and depression ever recorded—prompting urgent calls for targeted mental health interventions and improved support systems.
Released in June 2025, the data shows that girls aged 12–17 and gender-diverse young people are disproportionately affected by mental health disorders, with a marked increase since the pandemic.
Key Mental Health Findings in Australian Youth
According to the Mission Australia Youth Mental Health Survey and supplementary reports:
- 1 in 3 teenage girls now report high or very high levels of psychological distress
- Gender-diverse youth are five times more likely to experience severe anxiety
- Common conditions include generalized anxiety disorder, major depression, and body image-related distress
The trend is especially pronounced in urban schools, but rural areas are catching up due to lack of access to gender-sensitive care and inclusive education environments.
Experts Call for Urgent Action
Health professionals are warning of a “silent epidemic” in Australia’s youth, emphasizing the need for:
- Early mental health screening in schools
- Funding for gender-affirming support services
- Broader access to teletherapy and digital counselling for isolated teens
- Culturally safe mental health initiatives for diverse communities
“The data is undeniable. These young people are not being adequately supported,” said a senior psychologist at Beyond Blue. “We need action now.”
What Families and Schools Can Do
To combat this crisis, experts recommend:
- Creating safe, inclusive school environments
- Educating parents and teachers about gender identity and emotional health
- Integrating peer support programs and on-campus counsellors
School administrators are being urged to prioritize mental wellness curriculums, especially for students navigating complex identity or emotional challenges.
Key Takeaways:
- Australia sees record-high rates of anxiety and depression among teen girls and gender-diverse youth
- Mental health experts urge immediate intervention to prevent long-term consequences
- Suggested solutions include school-based care, telehealth, and inclusive therapy access
- The report highlights a widening mental health gap among vulnerable youth populations
