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.

“Mental health support is one of the main reasons young people are seeing GPs. While all the
guidelines recommend that non-pharmacological interventions should be the first step, what we are
seeing is that antidepressants are often being introduced too early” said Dr Tim Jones, Chair, RACGP
Child and Young Person's Health, Specific Interest Group.

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.

“This program is about helping GPs feel equipped to have brave conversations,” said A/Prof Aswin
Ratheesh, psychiatrist and researcher with Black Dog Institute. “Young people increasingly turn to
peers, social media or even AI apps for mental health advice — we need to ensure GPs remain a
trusted, and informed source of support.”

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.

“Our goal is to provide health professionals with access to easily accessible, high-quality, innovative
education that enhances clinical skills, supports effective communication and improves outcomes for
young people” said A/Prof Stephen Barnett, GP and CEO Medcast.

The program kicks off on 3 December 2025 with a webinar. Registration and more details about the
program are available via www.medcast.com.au.

Contact information
Sue Brown
Stakeholder Lead, Quality Use of Medicines Alliance
sbrown@qumconnect.com.au
0409 328 421