The Mental Health of Young People in Australia: Child and Adolescent Component of the National Survey — A Commentary

Abstract

Objective: This article reports some of the main findings from the recent national survey of the mental health and well-being of children and adolescents and considers its implications. Conclusions: There is a high prevalence of mental health problems in Australian children and adolescents, and these have a significant impact on sufferers and their families. We will need to collect ongoing data about child and adolescent mental health to monitor the effectiveness of our response to these problems. ADHD is surprisingly common and greater attention needs to be given to research on ADHD in Australia. The resources devoted to child and adolescent mental health services are currently not adequate or equitable and need boosting, as do efforts to increase primary mental health care for this population. Whole population and selected prevention and early intervention approaches offer the most logical method for lowering the prevalence and burden of disorder. Community education for parents, and a boost to research and training in child and adolescent mental health is required if we are to make a difference.