Adolescence can be a time of significant change. Young people are navigating school, friendships, family relationships, identity, independence and the transition into adulthood - sometimes while also experiencing mental health difficulties.
At Nundah Private Hospital, we provide specialist mental health support for adolescents aged 12 years and over through our outpatient clinic, with access to experienced mental health professionals who understand the unique needs of young people and their families.
Our approach is focused on providing a safe, respectful and supportive environment where young people can talk openly about what they are experiencing and receive appropriate assessment, treatment and ongoing support.
Mental health concerns can look different in every young person. Changes in behaviour, mood, relationships, school attendance or day-to-day functioning can sometimes be signs that additional support may be helpful.
Our outpatient services can support young people experiencing a range of mental health concerns, including:
Early support can make an important difference. Seeking help does not necessarily mean that a young person has a serious mental illness. Sometimes, having the opportunity to speak with an experienced mental health professional can help a young person and their family better understand what is happening and identify appropriate next steps.
Finding the right mental health support for a teenager can feel overwhelming for parents and carers.
Our outpatient clinic provides an opportunity for young people to access specialist assessment and treatment without requiring a hospital admission.
We recognise that adolescents are not simply younger adults. Their mental health needs are influenced by their development, family environment, education, friendships and the many changes taking place during these years.
Where appropriate, families may also be involved in the treatment process, helping create a supportive environment around the young person.
The transition from adolescence into adulthood can bring its own challenges.
At Nundah Private Hospital, our services extend across the continuum of care. Young adults aged 18 and over may be considered for inpatient mental health admission, where hospital-based treatment is clinically appropriate.
This can provide an option for more intensive support when outpatient treatment alone is not enough.
Our goal is to provide care that is appropriate to the person's stage of life, clinical needs and circumstances.
It can be difficult to know when changes in a teenager's behaviour are part of normal adolescence and when additional support may be needed.
It may be worth seeking professional advice if a young person is experiencing ongoing or significant changes such as:
You do not need to wait until things become overwhelming before asking for help.
We understand that taking the first step towards mental health care can feel daunting - particularly for a teenager who may be unsure about talking to someone.
Our aim is to create an environment where young people feel listened to, respected and involved in their care.
We also recognise the important role parents, carers and other support people can play. Where appropriate, we work collaboratively with families and other treating professionals to help ensure care is connected and consistent.
If you are concerned about your teenager's mental health, our outpatient clinic provides access to specialist mental health care for young people aged 12 years and over.
For young adults aged 18 and over, inpatient mental health admission may also be available when clinically appropriate.
Speak with our team to discuss outpatient appointments and referral options.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or experiencing a mental health emergency, call 000 or contact a crisis service such as Lifeline on 13 11 14.
