“All the transitions are important, but the transition to high school is unique due to the cognitive and emotional changes students are undergoing during this stage of their development. Starting high school can feel exciting and challenging, sometimes both at the same time!"

Dr Emma Woodward

“A formula in dealing with adolescents is force equals resistance. Sometimes it just isn’t possible to stop them doing whatever it is they want to do. Regardless of everything, all you want is for them to come home safe, so start the conversation today!"

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

“Children who spend more time with their fathers during adolescence, usually have better social skills and a higher self-worth than those who do not. Fathers need to get in there and be involved, even if they get pushed away. Being persistent and present is important."

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

“The Coronavirus has turned our lives upside down and asked us all to navigate a ton of uncertainty about what happens next. These changes are confronting, creating a perfect storm for a rise in anxiety, depression and substance abuse problems amongst young people."

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

“Some young people remain in denial as to the seriousness of the situation, but the truth is, Coronavirus continues to present a risk to the whole community. There’s a concern that many young people think it is business as usual."

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

“Research shows there are specific risk factors that increase the likelihood of teenagers developing a mental health problem. Some are set in stone, and others are modifiable. It can impact their ability to function and perform normal activities."

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

“Disappointment is a normal, though difficult, part of growing up and can be a tricky emotion to deal with at any age. How your children learn to respond to disappointment will determine its impact on their future achievement and happiness.”

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

“Our young people will take their lead from us. We need to let them know that we are taking the coronavirus seriously, but we are not panicking. This is not downplaying what is happening, it is just context.”

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

“Parents shouldn’t avoid talking about the coronavirus. Not talking about something can actually make young people worry more. Take the opportunity to convey the facts and set the emotional tone. Help your children feel informed and reassured.”

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

"It’s no secret that the end of school can be a huge source of anxiety for both students and parents alike. Final year students suffer from high-level anxiety or stress, with many also suffering from depression."

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

"Starting at a new school is a big deal! Your child is going to meet lots of new people and be thrown into new situations. That’s bound to make them feel lots of different emotions."

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

"For many Christmas is a wonderful day filled with family, friends, gifts, good food and good times. But for some people, the reality is often quite different due to increased loneliness and hardship."

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

"Some psychologists worry that fears around the projected impacts of climate change may lead to a learned helplessness or hopelessness. ‘Eco-anxiety’ has begun to emerge in pre-schoolers, primary and secondary students."

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

“Such a distressing and frightening experience can challenge your child's sense of security and predictability of their world. Their response will depend on their age, stage of development and personality.”

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

“Although e-cigarettes have been around for more than a decade, vaping rates have skyrocketed in recent years, especially among teenagers, and many parents are justifiably concerned.”

Dr Hannah Norris