The World Health Organisation predicted that by 2030 depression would be the single largest cause of disease burden in the world. As we emerge from a period that has included fires, floods, COVID-19 and many other disruptions to our lives, we may meet this unwelcome outcome even sooner.

The central question we seek to answer in schools is: Are young Australians experiencing higher rates of depression than in the past, and if so, why?

It is important to look at how childhood, adolescence, and young adulthood have changed over the past two decades, and how social factors may be increasing young people’s risks for depression. We can also consider the unique experiences of depression in young First Nations people.

This is a call to action, based on evidence, for government to step forward and commit to protect the mental health of our young people – now and for the future.

Depression is a common mental health condition characterised by persistent feelings of sad mood, loss of interest or enjoyment in pleasurable activities, as well as other symptoms like sleep and appetite disturbances, feelings of worthlessness, trouble concentrating or making decisions, and often, thoughts of suicide or self-harm. Depression can look very different from person to person, and it can have many different causes.

For our parents and families at St Edward’s College, we encourage you to remain vigilant towards any significant or ongoing changes in mood, demeanour and behaviour you may notice in your son. This may include:

• not going out anymore or stopping activities previously enjoyed
• not getting things done at work or school, low motivation for anything
• withdrawing from close family and friends
• relying on alcohol and other substances
• changes in sleep patterns, loss of weight and/or appetite
• inability to concentrate

Please know that if you have concerns, you can reach out to the school and get support for your son. The Central Coast community also has a range of online and face-to face support services. These can be found in the first tile on our Digital Wellbeing Hub, entitled Central Coast Resource List or by clicking the link below.