Reports show that nearly one third of secondary students — and more than a quarter of primary students — are now experiencing high levels of depression or anxiety symptoms, or both.
Sadly, more than 45% of young people diagnosed with a mental health condition do not get the help they need, and despite various school wellbeing programs, many students feel these initiatives fall short of addressing their needs.
However, a successful, evidence-based mental health app has been changing that equation, giving young Australians an easy, confidential way to check in early, build coping skills and reach support before issues escalate — right when they need it most.
My Mind Check, launched in 2024, delivers proactive mental-health check-ins backed by Macquarie University research showing 20% fewer emotional difficulties and 30% better attendance. The platform slots easily into school workflows, giving teachers confidence to support students. Now used across all sectors — including 40% of regional schools — it’s helping identify concerns early, strengthen family–school conversations and, with nearly 90% staff endorsement, drive real wellbeing gains.
As of November 2025, the free, government-funded platform has helped more than 20,000 students access proactive mental health support when they need it most.
Not only has the program partnered with more than 200 schools and more than 2,300 staff members across all states and territories – more than 2,200 other schools have expressed interest in using My Mind Check, meaning there are potentially 1.3 million potential students who could access the platform.
Dr Lauren McLellan, Director of My Mind Check, said this success highlights the growing need for more proactive student mental health assistance in Australia.
“Our goal is to help schools take a proactive approach to student wellbeing so that no one falls through the cracks,” McLellan said.
“By giving students a voice in their mental health journey and equipping educators with practical tools and resources, we’re helping to support educators to create positive school environments where every student feels seen, supported and can thrive.”
McLellan said the results speak for themselves.
“This first year has shown the incredible impact that’s possible when schools are given the tools to act early to prioritise wellbeing before issues escalate.”
Almost 90% of staff from schools using My Mind Check recommend it for other schools.
“Feedback from educators has been overwhelmingly positive in that My Mind Check builds their confidence in addressing mental health concerns, while creating natural opportunities for meaningful wellbeing conversations with students and families,” McLellan pointed out.
According to one NSW high school, the check-ins helped identify more than seven students who needed support, and they were connected with the school counsellor.
“One of our year 12 students knew she had been struggling with anxiety – the check-in really got her into support,” a teacher from the school said.
McLellan said stories like this show the impact My Mind Check is having in helping schools build more proactive and supportive learning environments.
“Entering its second year, My Mind Check is focused on expanding access to proactive mental health support for Australian students nationwide.”