How to seek mental health support for your teen

This blog covers the signs that indicate your teen may need professional support, how to access free mental health services through the Australian government, and how HBF can support your family with psychology benefits and psychiatric care if needed.

Signs your teen might need professional mental health support

It’s not unusual for teens to experience ups and downs (hello hormones!), but certain changes in behaviour, mood, or habits can be a sign that your child is struggling with something deeper.¹ Here are some key indicators we recommend watching out for:

Persistent changes in mood or behaviour: If your typically outgoing teen becomes withdrawn, irritable, or consistently down, this could be a sign of anxiety, depression, or burnout.¹

Difficulty concentrating or a drop in academic performance: Stress and mental health challenges can manifest as trouble focusing, forgetfulness, or a sudden dip in school performance.²

Disrupted sleep patterns: Issues like insomnia, frequent waking, or excessive sleeping might indicate underlying anxiety or depression.³

Loss of interest in hobbies and socialising: A sudden disinterest in activities your child once enjoyed or a retreat from social circles can be concerning.⁴

Physical symptoms with no clear cause: Headaches, stomach aches, and other unexplained aches and pains are common signs of mental health struggles.^5,6

Negative self-talk and increased sensitivity to criticism: Excessive self-criticism or expressions of hopelessness can be red flags.⁷

Withdrawal from family life: If your teen isolates themselves and avoids family interactions, it may signal that they need more support.⁸

If you’re noticing one or more of the above signs for more than a two-week period, it’s important to consider seeking professional help.¹ Just like you wouldn’t wait to treat a broken arm, addressing mental health issues early is crucial for achieving the best outcomes.

Accessing free mental health services through Medicare

The good news is that there are government-supported mental health services that you can access to help your teen.

Step 1: Visit your GP

Your first point of contact should be your GP, who can assess your teen’s needs and refer them for further support. They can help create a mental health treatment plan (formerly known as a mental health care plan), which allows your child to access Medicare-subsidised sessions with a psychologist.⁹ If your teen isn't comfortable visiting your family GP, consider finding a doctor who specialises in adolescent mental health to ensure they receive the care they need.

Step 2: Book in to see a psychologist.

Under the Better Access initiative, your child may be eligible for up to 10 subsidised sessions with a psychologist per year. Keep in mind that while the plan helps cover costs, health professionals set their own fees, so Medicare may only cover part of the expense.

Step 3: Utilise free helplines and resources

Services like Kids Helpline, Beyond Blue, and Headspace offer free counselling, information, and resources specifically for young people and their families. These services can provide critical support and guidance, particularly if your teen is hesitant to see a professional in person.

There are also state-based mental health crisis numbers available 24/7, listed below:

• ACT: 1800 629 354 — Access Mental Health
• NSW: 1800 011 511 — Mental Health Line
• NT: 1800 682 288 — Mental Health Line
• QLD: 1300 642 255 — 1300 MH CALL
• SA: 13 14 65 — Mental Health Triage Service
• TAS: 1800 332 388 — Access Mental Health
• VIC: 1300 651 251 — SuicideLine
• WA: 1300 555 788 (Metro) or 1800 676 822 (Peel) — Mental Health Emergency Response Line

How HBF can support your teen’s mental health

At HBF, we’re committed to supporting your family’s health and wellbeing. If your child needs ongoing care, select HBF extras cover can help pay towards sessions with a psychologist or clinical psychologist. This can be a valuable supplement to government-subsidised sessions, allowing your teen to continue receiving support after the initial sessions are used up.

If your teen’s mental health needs are more complex and require hospital psychiatric services, the Mental Health Waiver may be an option. The Mental Health Waiver allows a person with eligible hospital cover to upgrade from restricted to full benefits for hospital psychiatric services without serving the usual 2-month waiting period.

If your child has been covered under eligible hospital cover for at least two months with restricted benefits, you can upgrade the cover to provide them with full benefits for hospital psychiatric services. HBF will waive the usual 2-month waiting period, allowing your teen to access the care they need without delay. It’s important to note that this waiver can only be used once in their lifetime, even if your family’s cover is changed or they switch health funds in the future.

For more information, you can consult the Australian Government Department of Health regarding the Mental Health Waiver.

To explore the options available to you, or if you have questions about your cover, please reach out to us. We’re here to guide you through the process and ensure your family receives the best possible care.