CURTIN University will lead a new national study, Young Minds: Our Future, to examine the mental health and wellbeing of Australian children aged four to 17, backed by an $8.1 million investment from the Federal Government.
The study aims to provide updated insights into the mental health of young Australians, informing future services and setting benchmarks for progress.
The initiative marks the first comprehensive review since the Young Minds Matter study a decade ago, during which the demand for mental health services has surged, with issues emerging earlier in life.
Recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics highlighted that nearly 40% of people aged 16 to 24 experienced mental ill-health in the past year, with anxiety disorders being the most prevalent.
However, similar statistics for those under 16 are lacking, underscoring the need for this updated research.
Pharmacist and Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, Emma McBride, emphasised the importance of the study, saying "this research will help shape more tailored mental health services for young people and families to better understand the factors contributing to mental ill-health".
The mental health study will begin in late 2025, with results expected in 2027.
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