Recognising anxiety and depression in young people
May 22, 2025
Mental health challenges among young people are on the rise globally and Australia is no exception. Anxiety and depression are two of the most common mental health concerns affecting children, teenagers, and young adults. Recognising the signs early can make a huge difference in a young person’s wellbeing, academic performance, relationships, and long-term health.
Whether you’re a parent, carer, teacher, or youth support worker, understanding the symptoms, and knowing how to respond, is key to supporting young people through tough times.
Anxiety is a natural human response to stress or danger. It’s the feeling of fear, worry, or unease that everyone experiences from time to time. But when anxiety becomes persistent, overwhelming, or out of proportion to the situation, it may be considered a mental health condition. Anxiety is your body and brain’s alarm system. It gets you ready to face a threat. This can be helpful in short bursts, but problematic when it doesn’t turn off.
Anxiety can be a real problem if:
- It lasts for weeks or months
- It interferes with daily life (school, work, relationships)
- It leads to avoidance of normal activities
- It’s accompanied by physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, sweating, nausea, or trouble sleeping
Depression, on the other hand, is a prolonged sense of sadness, hopelessness, or a lack of interest in things that used to bring joy. Depression is a common but serious mental health condition that affects how a person feels, thinks, and behaves. It goes far beyond occasional sadness. Depression involves persistent feelings of hopelessness, emptiness, or disinterest that can last for weeks or longer and interfere with daily life.
Depression is more than feeling down. It’s like losing your emotional ‘spark’ and the things that once brought joy or purpose feel dull, overwhelming, or meaningless.
While these conditions often overlap, and while they’re treatable, they’re not always easy to spot. Some of the emotional signs of anxiety or depression in young people, that you can watch for, may include:
- Ongoing sadness or irritability
- Excessive worry or fear
- Feeling worthless or hopeless
- Outbursts of anger or frequent mood swings
In addition, young people may exhibit some behavioural signs of either anxiety or depression. Keep an eye out for:
- Withdrawal from friends and family
- Loss of interest in hobbies or school
- Avoiding social situations
- Changes in eating or sleeping habits
Finally, there can also be physical manifestations which may include:
- Constant fatigue or low energy
- Headaches or stomach aches without a clear cause
- Restlessness or trouble sitting still
So, what can you do about it and what’s the best way to support a young person who may be experiencing anxiety or depression?
Firstly, let them know you’ve noticed they’re not themselves, and you’re there to talk, with no judgment. Simple phrases like ‘I’ve noticed you’ve been a bit down lately, how are you feeling?’ can kickstart a conversation.
Equally, sometimes, just being heard can be very powerful. Avoid jumping straight to solutions. Show empathy and validate how the young person is feeling and just listen without, trying to fix the problem.
If the symptoms are ongoing or affecting their daily life, gently suggest support through a GP, psychologist, or school counsellor. Services like Kids Helpline or Headspace are also great starting points and may provide a sense of supportive anonymity.
Recognising anxiety and depression in young people isn’t always straightforward but your awareness and support can make a life-changing difference. When we listen, validate, and act with compassion, we help young people feel seen, supported, and empowered to seek help.
If someone you know needs immediate help, these organisations might be able to provide support:
Lifeline 13 11 14
Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800
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A World Mental Health Day message from Jan Bannerman , Joint Managing Director, Talent Quarter
If you've spent a few years in Emergency, chances are you've thought about it. "Could I do remote nursing?"
When our Nurse Alex moved from Northern Ireland to Australia in November 2025 , she wanted to do two things: work as a nurse and make the most of the opportunity to explore Australia. Travel nursing has given her the chance to do both! Making the most of the time between contracts 🐋 After wrapping up a contract, Alex headed to the Gold Coast for some well-earned downtime - which happened to fall right in the middle of humpback whale migration season. “I went whale watching which was incredible. It was peak season for humpback whales migrating down the east coast. There were so many whales!” For Alex, taking a break between contracts isn’t just about travelling. It gives her a chance to properly switch off after working in demanding and sometimes unfamiliar environments. “Contracts can be both physically and mentally demanding at times, and working in unknown environments can be overwhelming. Having time off between contracts has helped me recharge to be ready for the next contract.” Work, travel and a bit more freedom One of the things Alex has enjoyed most is being able to choose contracts that suit her experience and the way she wants to spend her time in Australia. “It’s great being able to balance the work and the holiday aspects of my Working Holiday Visa. As much as I love work, I love being able to see and experience Australia in all of its beauty in my downtime.” It’s also given her the chance to broaden her nursing experience. Alex comes from an ICU background, but since starting travel nursing she’s also worked in ED and on a medical ward. And then there are the places. Instead of only visiting somewhere for a weekend, Alex gets to spend a few weeks living and working there - experiencing smaller towns and parts of Australia she might never otherwise have had the chance to call home. Next stop: Tasmania 📍 Alex has now started a new contract in Tasmania, where she’s looking forward to gaining more ED experience and, of course, exploring more of the state while she’s there. For any nurses thinking about doing something similar, Alex’s advice is pretty simple: “Do it! I was nervous to start travel nursing, but I’m so glad I did it. The team at Talent Quarter supported and guided me throughout the whole way. They are always just a phone call away.” For Alex, it’s that freedom that makes travel nursing so worthwhile. “You could work the full year straight if you want, or take months off at a time to travel. It’s up to you.” A new contract, a new part of Australia and the freedom to decide what comes next. That’s what travel nursing has looked like for Alex so far. Thinking about giving travel nursing a go? Whether you’re ready for your next contract or just curious about what opportunities are out there, we’d love to hear from you . Get in touch with our Talent Quarter team and have a chat about where travel nursing could take you next! Click here: https://www.talentquarter.com/contact-us or get in touch with our consultant, Lewis Dew!
