Concerns we may be 'failing our youth' after new research shows one in five students haven't been able to access healthcare when needed

The Youth19 report of almost eight thousand students shows - although substance use has dropped, depression and suicidal attempts have increased.

Auckland University researcher Terryann Clark says health professionals need to be well trained so they're able to pick up on cues from young people.

She says youth might not have the right words to explain their feelings, or won't be able to open up if they feel judged.