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Raising sensitive issues and working to resolve problems that arise along the way can be challenging. It can also be hard as a parent to know the difference between normal behaviour, such as moodiness, irritability and withdrawal, and an emerging mental health problem. This section is designed to help you.
Do you have a few minutes to spare? If you are a family member or friend supporting a young person who is seeking support at a headspace centre, we would love to hear from you!
Mental ill-health
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An overview of mental health for family and friends
The journey from childhood to adulthood is full of physical, social, emotional and behavioural changes. With so much happening, it can be difficult to know the difference between normal behaviour such as occasional moodiness and irritability, and an emerg
how to start the conversation about mental health
A lot of things go unsaid between young people and their parents, especially when it comes to mental health. Our Fathers Campaign aims to open up conversations between parents and young people.
understanding anxiety - for friends & family
People experiencing an anxiety disorder find that their anxiety gets in the way of their daily life and stops them from achieving their full potential. Anxiety disorders are one of the most common mental health problems experienced by young people
understanding depression - for friends & family
Depression is the term used when feelings of sadness, depression and irritability have lasted longer than two weeks, affect most parts of daily life and stop people from taking part in activities that used to be enjoyable.
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Helping your young person when they have experienced trauma
Many parents and other adults supporting young people are concerned for a young person who has experienced trauma of some kind. It can be hard to know how best to help and trauma can have serious impacts on a young person’s development. Improving your understanding and skills in this area could be a key protective factor for your young person.
understanding self harm for families
There are a number of reasons why a young person may self-harm. It may be a way of telling other people about their distress and asking for help, a way of coping with stress or emotional pain, or a symptom of a mental illness like depression.
understanding psychosis – for families
It is often frightening for the person and confronting for others, but psychosis can be treated and recovery is possible. Without treatment, psychosis can seriously disrupt a young person's life and development.
supporting a young person after exposure to a traumatic event
A traumatic event is something that threatens your life or safety, or the lives of people around you. It is an experience that is stressful and has a significant impact on your emotional state.