Teen Mental Health

Teen Mental Health

Teen Mental Health Support

Teenagers and Mental Health: Guidance, Support & Professional Help

Adolescence can be one of the most confusing and emotionally intense times of a person’s life. As teenagers navigate the pressures of school, friendships, identity, and independence, it’s common for emotional struggles to surface. At The Three Seas Psychology, we help teens and their families understand these changes — and support them through it.

The State of Teen Mental Health in Australia

Mental health challenges are rising among young Australians. Research shows that by the age of 18, around 75% of teens will experience clinically significant symptoms of anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem.

Early intervention and consistent support can make a lasting difference — helping young people build resilience, confidence, and self-awareness.

Common Mental Health Challenges in Teenagers

Every teen is different, but some of the most common concerns we help with include:

  • Anxiety and Panic: Social anxiety, school avoidance, performance anxiety

  • Depression and Mood Swings

  • Low Self-Esteem and Confidence

  • Self-Harm or Suicidal Thoughts

  • Family and Relationship Struggles

  • Gender Identity and Sexuality

  • Grief, Loss, and Adjustment Difficulties

  • Sleep and Screen Addiction

  • Academic Pressure and Exam Stress

Understanding the Teenage Brain

Teenagers are not simply “young adults” — their brains are still under construction.

The prefrontal cortex, which manages logic, impulse control, and decision-making, is one of the last parts of the brain to mature. Meanwhile, the limbic system, which processes emotion and reward, is highly active. This means teens:

  • Feel emotions deeply

  • Respond strongly to peer influence

  • May take risks or act impulsively — without understanding why

Psychological support during this phase can help teens develop insight, regulate emotions, and build healthy coping strategies.

How Parents and Carers Can Help with Teen Mental Health

As a parent, it’s not always easy to tell the difference between typical teenage moodiness and a deeper struggle. That’s why it’s important to look out for:

  • Changes in sleep, appetite, or behaviour

  • Withdrawing from friends, school, or hobbies

  • Outbursts, irritability, or loss of motivation

  • Talk of hopelessness, fear, or worthlessness

If you’re worried, trust your instincts. Opening a conversation — and seeking professional advice early — is a powerful act of care.

How Our Psychologists Help Teenagers

At The Three Seas, our team of experienced psychologists offer:

✅ Safe, non-judgemental spaces

Teens often just need someone they can talk to — without fear of being punished or dismissed.

✅ Evidence-based therapies

We tailor each approach using techniques like:

  • CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy)

  • ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)

  • Mindfulness-Based Strategies

  • Family Systems Therapy

✅ Collaborative care

We work with teens and their families to build understanding, reduce conflict, and create a shared plan forward.

Getting Started is Easy

You don’t need a referral to book. We offer:

  • In-person sessions at our 4 convenient Melbourne locations

  • Telehealth options for teens and families across Australia

  • Psychologists experienced in working with adolescents

📞 Book a Confidential Appointment Today

We’re here to support your teen — and you.

Call: (03) 9809 1000
Email: clientconnect@thethreeseas.com.au
Or Book Online

FAQs

What are the signs a teenager needs a psychologist?

Signs may include persistent mood changes, withdrawal from friends or activities, changes in sleep or eating habits, academic decline, or expressions of hopelessness.

Psychologists provide a safe space for teens to express themselves, teach evidence-based coping strategies, and work on emotional regulation, self-esteem, and resilience.

Yes, especially at the start. Psychologists often work collaboratively with families to improve communication and support structures at home.

Yes, psychologists respect the teen’s privacy, but they’ll involve parents if there’s a risk to the teen’s safety or wellbeing.

Practice Locations