Mental illness: It’s time to start talking

Around half the population will experience a mental illness at some time, reveals a new ABS study, yet every year almost one million Australians are affected who do not get the help they urgently need.

The ABS (Australian Bureau of Statistics) study has found that over 800,000 people with a mental disorder need help, which they do not receive, including psychological treatments, information and social support.

People living in remote areas are even worse off, with the research showing those living in major cities access services at six times the rate of those living in very remote areas. 

SANE Australia Executive Director Barbara Hocking says the findings highlight a significant gap between awareness and availability of services.  Despite nearly 1 million people in need, few seek the support that is available from a GP or helpline.

"These statistics clearly suggest that while the number of people who experience a mental disorder has increased, knowledge of where and how to get information and support is not reaching those who need it," Ms Hocking said.

"A contributor to this is the discomfort many people still feel talking about and acknowledging mental illness, most likely because of concern over how people will react.

"This is particularly worrying as we now know from this research that nearly half the population will be affected by a mental disorder at some time in their lives.

"The SANE Freecall Helpline and other services can play a major role in helping people to access the help they urgently need, yet the ongoing challenge is to reduce the stigma that stops people from accessing such much-needed services."

The SANE Helpline provides information on mental illnesses, such as anxiety, depression and schizophrenia, as well as advice and referral to treatment and support services throughout Australia.

"With worsening economic conditions and increased stress on families and individuals, these statistics are a timely reminder of the need to raise community awareness of mental illness and encourage anyone concerned to seek help and support by contacting their doctor or calling the SANE Helpline," says Ms Hocking.

(Source: SANE Australia: April 2009)