The headspace National Youth Mental Health Survey revealed 54 per cent of young Australians feel a sense of loneliness, an increase from 49 per cent in 2018.

Bendigo headspace manager Lindsay Rose said the data captured the feeling of the youth in the community.

"I think these numbers are reflective of the issues we're seeing," he said.

"The pandemic and everything that has come with it has led to an increase in young people feeling lonely and disconnected.

"We have certainly seen an increase in young people seeking support and assistance since the beginning of the pandemic and that's reflective of the need to increase mental health services.

"But also, it demonstrates that young people know where they can go to for help."

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The research, involving 1,035 young people from across the nation, not only revealed that 54 per cent of young people lack companionship but also that 47 per cent of respondents felt left out and 43 per cent felt isolated.

The survey found young women consistently reported higher rates of loneliness than young men. This gender disparity was observed across every age group, except in 22-25 year-olds.

Reports of isolation among young women aged 12- 14 years rose to 40 per cent, when only 27 per cent felt isolated from others in 2018.

Another significant increase was among young men aged 18-21; in 2018, 36 per cent reported they felt isolated and this increased to 47 per cent in 2020.

"I think as a society we are recognising the males traditionally haven't been as open in regard to mental health and wellbeing," Mr Rose said.

"These results are a sign that as a society we're moving forward and that men feel safe to talk about their mental health and wellbeing which is great.

"If people are feeling isolated, sad, unwell in their mental health; always start with friends, family or your local GP.

"Don't feel like you can't, regardless of your age, gender or background, give mental health services a call."

headspace chief executive Jason Trethowan said the survey findings made it clear that young people were living through a very challenging time.

"Even with increases in online activity, young people report they lack companionship, feel left out and are missing out on experiences that define their youth - like meeting new people and travelling," Mr Trethowan says.

"We know there's a vicious cycle where feeling isolated can impact mental health, which in turn leads to further social withdrawal and poorer mental health."

"We want to encourage all young people to understand how loneliness might affect them and to reach out to friends and family to let them know what they're going through.

"We're also encouraging families and friends of young people to check in with their young person and notice where they might need additional support, particularly as we head into school holidays."

If you or someone you know is feeling disconnected or going through a tough time, visit headspace.org.au to access many resources, support via eheadspace, or to find your nearest centre.

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