Conversations about youth mental health: new program supports GPs to reposition antidepressant use in young people
With one in three young Australians experiencing a mental health condition each year, and suicide remaining the leading cause of death for 16 to 24-year-olds, the way clinicians approach antidepressant use in teens and young adults has never been more important.
Recent PBS data shows that antidepressant use among under 18s has doubled since 2012. Limited access to psychological therapies and urgency to act can drive early prescribing of antidepressants. However, antidepressants have limited evidence of benefits in this group.
A new government funded education program from the Quality Use of Medicines (QUM) Alliance —- a collaboration between Black Dog Institute, Medcast, RACGP and other leading health organisations —- is equipping GPs to navigate this complex area with greater confidence.
The Antidepressants in Young People program aims to reframe antidepressant use, positioning safe triage to non-pharmacological interventions as a first step. It provides GPs with evidence-based tools to guide shared decision-making, including prudent use of antidepressants, and build trust with young patients who are often reluctant to open up.
Delivered in partnership through the QUM Alliance, the program combines expert-led webinars, in-practice education, case studies and practical guidance to help clinicians navigate prescribing, deprescribing and alternative supports safely.
The program kicks off on 3 December 2025 with a webinar. Registration and more details about the program are available here.
Contact information
Sue Brown
Stakeholder Lead, Quality Use of Medicines Alliance
sbrown@qumconnect.com.au
0409 328 421
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