Student Services

Year 7 Youth Mental Health 

Screening in Schools Study

Our school is excited to be participating in a study on youth mental health screening in schools, conducted by Macquarie University in partnership with the NSW Department of Education and Ministry of Health, The Association of Independent Schools of NSW, and Catholic Schools NSW, along with the NSW Mental Health Commission. 

Sadly, more than half of Australian young people with mental health disorders do not get treatment. This study aims to transform the management of mental (or emotional) health in young people by identifying youth who are struggling with emotional distress and getting them to appropriate help early. 

What are the benefits for my child?

• Access to free emotional health screening for students in Year 7 that will identify students who may be experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, emotional distress (this information will be confidential and known only to the school and parents of identified students)
• Recommendations tailored to your child on local, evidence-based referral services, provided to the school by expert researchers and clinicians
• Increased knowledge for school mental health staff in methods of identifying and supporting students who may need help

Over the coming weeks, Year 7 parents and carers will receive emails with more information about the study and how your child can participate. In the meantime, Yr 7 parents are free to contact the Research Coordinator, Dr Peter Gates, if you have any questions or want to know more (peter.gates@mq.edu.au)