And parents, family members and friends had a hugely important role to play in helping young people who were suffering from mental health issues, according to Headspace Dubbo operations manager Peter Rohr.

THE prevalence of mental illnesses in young Australians was detailed on Friday, following the release of the Second Australian Child and Adolescent survey of Mental Health and Well-Being.

The comprehensive survey of over 6300 families and youths aged four to 17, found among other things, one in seven children and young people experienced a mental disorder in the previous 12 months, as many as one in 10 teenagers had engaged in some form of self-harm in their life, and one in 13 aged 12 to 17 contemplated suicide.

The confronting findings were not a shock to Mr Rohr, who revealed since Headspace opened in January, the provider of mental health services, general health, education and employment, alcohol and drug counselling, the demand for their services had been constant.

"From our perspectives, mental health is one of the most important issues in Dubbo and Western NSW," he said.

"We have seen over 200 people who had a variety of needs, but there is a similar pattern of depression and anxiety.

"Arguments with family of peer groups make it difficult for people to function and be happy.

"Over time, this can impact on their school, their employment opportunities and the way they interact with everyone.

"If we can reconnect them and help them get back in touch with the people close to them, they can make a big difference."

Minister for Health Sussan Ley said there was no doubt many of the findings were "confronting, sad and shocking", however it was important to recognise many areas were improving as well if positive change was to continue.

"As a parent it's heartbreaking to see these prevalent stories of depression, anxiety, self-harm and suicidal tendencies amongst our young people, let alone as Health Minister," she said.

"Mental health is often a difficult conversation for parents and their children to have, but these figures mean it is an important one to pursue for everyone's sake."

For Mr Rohr, what stood out from the report was how important a role parents, friends and family play in helping people who suffer from mental illness.

"We all have a responsibility to have the difficult conversations now," he said.

"It can be hard for parents to hear certain things from their kids, but if they are open it can really help.

"That is where Headspace and other services have really helped and people now know it is okay to reach out."

The Australian Government funded the $6.6 million, two-year survey undertaken by the Telethon Kids Institute and the University of Western Australia, in collaboration with Roy Morgan Research.