Australia’s leading youth counselling service has raised concerns over a sharp rise in children and teenagers reaching crisis point before seeking help.
The latest Kids Helpline Impact Report revealed the service received nearly 129,000 contacts in 2025, averaging more than 350 requests for support every day.
Crisis interventions have surged by 350 per cent since 2018, approaching levels seen during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Counsellors reported that many emergency cases involved suicide attempts, child abuse, and severe mental health distress.
The organisation says the worrying trend is continuing into 2026 and is calling for greater government investment in early intervention and mental health support services.
Experts warn that many young people are delaying seeking help until their situations become critical, highlighting the growing mental health challenges facing Australian youth.
