With teenagers suffering the highest ever rates of mental ill health, advocates are calling for screening in schools.

Director of the Black Dog Institute Helen Christensen told Deborah Knight suicide rates have not increased amid the pandemic, but hospitalisations and incidence of suicidal ideation have.

While young adults tend to be more likely to seek help, barriers remain.

“There’s a six- to nine-month waiting list … in terms of getting clinical psychological help, or access to psychiatrists in the private sector.

“One of the things we’re really advocating for is screening in schools, when schools get back.”

In work undertaken by the Black Dog Institute, up to 40 per cent of students identified as being at risk hadn’t been flagged as such by their schools, Professor Christensen said.

Press PLAY below to hear the Black Dog Institute’s insights

If you or someone you know needs help, call Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, Lifeline on 13 11 14 or BeyondBlue on 1300 224 636.

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