Fact sheets

Fact sheets

Antidepressants: frequently asked questions

This resource is for young people aged 12–25 and their family and friends. It is designed to answer common questions about antidepressant medication and may also help during conversations with your healthcare professional so that you can make informed choices about your treatment.

When anxiety is a problem - Signs and symptoms in young people

Anxiety is more than feeling stressed or worried. Anxious and stressed feelings can be a normal response to upcoming uncertain and stressful situations such as an exam, important sports game or starting a new job. Anxiety is our body’s way of responding to potential threat or pressures, and in small doses can actually help us perform better by keeping us alert and motivated. However these feelings usually pass when the stressful situation is over. Anxiety becomes a problem when the worry or fear is persistent or excessive, and gets in the way of a young person achieving their full potential in areas such as school, work and social relationships

Anxiety and young people

Anxiety disorders are characterised by excessive fear and worry, which can seriously reduce a young person’s ability to function in their day-to-day lives. Anxiety disorders are common – around 15% of Australians aged 16–24 experience an anxiety disorder each year.