Supporting yourself - young adults

What can I do?

There are definitely things you can do to find 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.
If you want to talk to a professional, many Australian organisations provide free online support using phone, chat, and email.
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.

“It can be difficult talking to my mum as I don't want to distress her. It's good to get professional help and not just rely on family. ”
Carissa

Overview

Between the ages of 18 and 25, we experience some big changes and events in our lives. As a young adult, you may be entering the workforce, finding your identity, travelling, studying, socialising, or finding your calling in life.

As you become more independent and your responsibilities increase, it can be stressful. Some of the causes of this stress could be relationship problems, sexual health and identity issues, money problems, and excessive alcohol or drug use, among others. So it's a crucial time to look after your wellbeing.

Noticing any symptoms relating to mental illness early on can help you get back into balance more smoothly later in life. Developing social skills, self-respect, optimistic thinking, and self-discipline can greatly help to improve wellbeing and mental health.

Reaching out and talking to people you trust about what you’re going through can be a big step in the right direction. We have resources below that can help you get started.

If you want to reach out for help, but aren't sure where to start, you may find this information on seeking support helpful.

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 disorder (including substance abuse disorders). This is approximately 750,000 people in Australia. Furthermore, 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)

Self-care skills are important for young adults to look after their own wellbeing

Some common ways that young adults deal with stress are fun activities, regular exercise, time with friends, and relaxation techniques. For looking after your wellbeing, building resilience is an important personal skill to cope with setbacks in day-to-day living, and to keep on thriving even if things don’t go your way. (Source 1) (Source 2)

Young adulthood is still a time of biological growth and change

Even though physical and sexual maturation has occurred in late teenage years, social and neural development keeps happening during your early twenties. The cerebral cortex of the brain comes ‘online’ at this time, improving the decision-making process and further refining emotional development. (Source)

It can be helpful to notice and record personal strengths, and changes

People display signs and symptoms of mental illness in different ways, and face them differently too. When experiencing symptoms of mental ill-health, it can be important to observe your specific strengths, and note down changes in behaviour, feelings, or perceptions. (Source 1) (Source 2)

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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Therapist-guided

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Page last updated 11th July 2019

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