Warning: This article discusses self-harm.

First Nations young people are more likely to indicate risk of suicide, with females significantly more likely to reach out for help, as more and more youth across the country contact mental health support.

Concerning data comes via Kids Helpline's latest Impact Report.

One in three contacts made to the service by First Nations young people in 2025 reported current thoughts of suicide and 25 per cent indicated experiences of self-injuring.

Out of all contacts made to Kids Helpline last year, nine per cent came from Indigenous youth — a significant overrepresentation comparative to the national population.

Kids Helpline is Australia's only 24/7, free counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25.

They've responded to more than 9 million contacts since 1991, with the ethos for youth to reach out anytime, for any reason.

The report offers a "sobering snapshot of the experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people," Dean Brunker told National Indigenous Times.

Mr Brunker is Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Initiatives Manager at yourtown, the organisation which delivers Kids Helpline.

"Nearly six in ten contacts relate to mental health concerns, with significant numbers of young people disclosing suicidal thoughts and self-injury—highlighting the level of distress many are facing," he said.

"Most contacts come from young people aged 10 to 18, reinforcing the importance of early intervention and access to culturally safe, trusted support.

"We are also seeing strong engagement from young women and increasing access from trans and gender diverse young people, underscoring the need for inclusive services."

Contacts made by young males made up only 13 per cent of the total made by Indigenous young people.

Eight per cent of contacts were made by trans and gender diverse First Nations young people.

These percentages are broadly reflected in contacts made by culturally and language diverse (CALD) and non-Indigenous, non CALD young people.

Almost two thirds are made via Kids Helpline's webchat, 38 per cent from outside major cities — from inner regional to remote areas.

Over 80 per cent of contacts are made by those aged 10-18.

Examples of reasons for or experiences indicated, and their prevalence within contacts made by First Nations young people

- Mental health issues indicated or known to be previously: Indicated in 59% of contacts

- Current thoughts of suicide disclosed: 33% (10 per cent higher than non-Indigenous children and young people)

- Indicating experiences of self-injury: 25%

- Suicide-related concerns: 28% (8 per cent more likely than non-Indigenous children and young people)

- Family relationship issues: 14%

- Child abuse: 8% (3 per cent more likely than non-Indigenous children and young people)

- Loss and grief: 4%

- Sexual assault/abuse (non family): 3%

- Study and education issues: 2% (lower than non-Indigenous children and young people)

- Dating and partner abuse: 1%

In comparison, 14 per cent of CALD contacts, and 23 per cent of non-Indigenous, non CALD contacts indicated current thoughts of suicide.

Broader mental health issues were the most common reasons for contact from these groups, at 41 and 53 per cent, respectively.

The organisation is calling out for more funding and investment in early intervention as the calls, chats and emails they receive continue to grow in numbers.

The service responded to 5,190 crisis interventions in 2025. It's an increase of 350 per cent since 2018.

Since 2020, contacts made by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people have increased by over 1000 instances in a 12 month period.

"We know that not everyone's experiences are the same, and that cultural aspect of someone's world is really important," Kids Helpline National Service Manager Leo Hede told National Indigenous Times.

The service uses trained, employed counsellors.

Cultural sensitivity and cultural understanding training is conducted.

"Are we okay with a young person reaching out in crisis and maybe not getting the support they need at that time?" - Kids Helpline asks

Across contacts made by all young people, Kids Helpline's webchat avenue was most popular.

It's the first time in the service's history phone calls were surpassed as most used method.

"Behind every crisis intervention is a young person in significant distress. We want young people to know they don't have to wait until they are in crisis to ask for help," yourtown chief executive Tracy Adams said, on the release of the Impact Report.

"We know at Kids Helpline that stigma remains one of the biggest barriers stopping young people from reaching out to the service. They worry about being judged, dismissed or becoming a burden if they speak up about what they're feeling.

"Our data shows that because of this stigma, young people are waiting until the breaking point to seek the help they need, and these numbers are growing. We are seeing this pattern continue in 2026, which is not just staggering, but shows the reality our kids are facing every day."

Amid the stark increase in contact numbers, there is some light; kids needing help are engaging with services.

"Young people reach out when they believe someone will respond quickly, safely, and without judgment. We're here to support young people, and meet them where they're at, but that comes at a cost," Ms Adams said, as the call is made for increased support to provide the best support they can.

yourtown contributes 50 per cent of Kids Helplines funding, with the Federal, state and territory governments covering the other half.

Mr Hede asked: "Are we okay with a young person reaching out in crisis and maybe not getting the support they need at that time?"

"That's that's the question we were posing at the moment with this data. Are we okay with that?

"We know it's a challenge out there with resourcing and funding, but we'd like to be able to make sure that we could get to every young person when they need it."

Mr Bunker adds Kids Helpline "remains a vital service in bridging gaps where local supports are limited", particularly outside metro areas.

"These figures represent real young people seeking help at critical moments. Continued investment in culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and accessible support is essential to ensure every young person feels heard, safe, and supported."

13 YARN - 13 92 76

Kids Helpline - 1800 55 1800

Lifeline - 13 11 14