Opinion: Parents’ vital role in navigating the challenge of a generation

The rise in mental health issues among our young people coincides with the widespread use of smartphones and social media, writes John Gerrard.

As Queensland’s chief health officer, my responsibility is to inform the Health Minister of significant public health issues.

My team works diligently to track health indicators, and most paint a positive picture

for Queenslanders. We’re seeing an improvement in life expectancy and a decline in deaths from heart disease and cancer.

However, there’s one area where the data tells a different story – the mental health and wellbeing of our teenagers, especially girls.

The numbers are clear: hospitalisations for self-harm in Australian girls aged 10-14 have tripled, and for females aged 15-19, they’ve doubled since 2008-09.

While this primarily affects girls, it’s important to acknowledge that boys are also experiencing a decline in mental wellbeing.

Every young person admitted to the hospital for self-harm represents just a fraction of those suffering in silence.

Similar trends are observed worldwide, prompting me to notify the Health Minister and convene a group of mental health experts to discuss this challenge.

Queensland Chief Health Officer Dr John Gerrard

Of note, the rise in these concerns coincides with the widespread use of smartphones and social media. There’s likely a complex interplay of factors, but the timing is noteworthy.

The answer isn’t simple, but a conversation is crucial.

Parents, your children look to you for guidance. I want you to feel empowered because you know your children’s personalities and values best.

Closely monitor their online activity, engage with their digital world, and walk alongside them on this journey.

For younger children, limiting social media exposure and actively guiding their online experience is essential. We recommend delaying social media use at least until the age of 14.

And to affected teens, your voice matters. Your experiences are key to finding solutions. If you ever feel like social media is bringing you down, share your thoughts with a trusted adult or friend.

Please know that you don’t have to navigate this alone. It’s not just up to you.

Queensland Health is expanding mental health resources, and I’m committed to working with educators, policymakers, and social media platforms to create a safer online environment.

Let’s have this conversation as a community. The wellbeing of our children is the responsibility of everybody.

Dr John Gerrard is Queensland’s Chief Health Officer

Originally published as Opinion: Parents’ vital role in navigating the challenge of a generation