Supporting young adults

What can I do?

There are definitely things you can do to provide support. What’s most important is taking the time to find what’s right for you.

There are behaviours and skills that can help. If you want to learn them online, we can show you some relevant apps and programs.
You are not alone; other people have experienced what you are experiencing. Below you’ll find some forums where you can learn from people with similar experiences.
This page gives a brief overview, and at the bottom you’ll find some websites where you can go for more detailed information and advice.

“After so many years without help, my daughter was glad to have a diagnosis because it meant getting good treatments. ”
Ela

Overview

Some of life's biggest changes take place between the ages of 18 and 25. During this phase, many young adults have already started to make their own choices about work, study, where they live, and their relationships. It is also a crucial time to make decisions about the future.

As responsibilities increase, it can get overwhelming at times. There are many things that can impact on a young adult’s mental health. Conflicts between their life path and family or societal expectations, challenging relationships, financial problems, and excessive alcohol or drug use are some of the influencing factors.

For families and friends, it can be difficult to watch a loved one go through hard times. Helping a young adult get through a rough patch involves understanding and respecting their growing independence, while still giving care and support.

If you feel that a young adult in your life is experiencing mental health issues, there are things you can do right away. The resources below have information and advice. If you want to support a young person, but aren’t sure where to start, we have pages on how to support someone and support for carers.

A closer look

1 in 4 Australians aged 16-24 currently experience a mental illness

In the last 12 months, 26% of young Australians experienced a mental health condition (including substance abuse disorders). This is around 750,000 people in Australia. 9% of Australians aged 16–24 have high or very high levels of psychological distress. On a positive note, many young people report getting support from friends, family and loved ones, rather than facing discrimination. (Source)

Young adults are less likely to seek support

Australians tend not to access the mental health support they need. However, young adults in particular are less likely to reach out for help than those younger and older than them. Early treatment of emerging mental health conditions is shown to help with recovery, so encouraging young adults to seek treatment is a positive first step. (Source)

Developing wellbeing practices provides short-term and long-term benefits

Young adults can find relief from the symptoms of mental ill-health through fun activities, regular exercise, time with friends, and relaxation techniques. These practices can also help guard against the onset of further mental health issues. Read more on wellbeing in the meaningful life section of this website. (Source)

Young adults may feel under-serviced in Mental Health

Young adults with an existing mental health condition might feel lost between two systems as they move from child and adolescent health care providers to adult services. There is also the added potential challenge of looking after their own health care independently for the first time. Helping a young adult navigate the health system can help overcome these barriers. (Source)

Lived experience

My daughter has got some very close friends who have stuck by her when she became unwell. Having this kind of support is so important.

Satu

I went back through my family tree and found several relatives who had mental illnesses. When I told my son, he found it really helpful to know that there was a genetic link. It helped him realise that his mental illness is not his fault.

Jo

My daughter found art therapy to be really helpful. She goes to sessions when she is both in and out of hospital.

Satu

Next steps

You might find online and phone-based mental health resources helpful. Some suggestions are below. You can find more with our Search tool.

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Page last updated 11th July 2019

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