Mental health is something that most Australians will deal with at some point in their life, with estimates that 1 in 5 Australians are currently experiencing mental health challenges, and up to 17% suffer with a form of anxiety (AIHW, 2024).
Medications are commonly used to support the management of mental health concerns. Recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) reported an estimated 14.2% of adults (16-85 years) were taking at least one form of anti-depressant medication (ABS, 2022). Despite the plethora of services available and the funding provided, there are still numerous barriers attempting to access treatment. Geographical limitations, practitioner availability, and lack of appropriate referral schemes have been reported. Issues around cultural-sensitivity, and awareness were also raised, particularly for higher-risk populations (Kavanagh et al., 2023).
Many working adults in Australia report experiencing ongoing difficulties at work from their mental health challenges, including restrictions, change in workload and requiring assistance (AIHW). Women are also at higher risk of experiencing harmful behavior such as bullying, sexual harassment, aggression, and work-related violence compared to their male counterparts (SafeworkAustralia).
The annual spending on mental health-associated infrastructure and services increased from $10.9B (2017-2018), to $12.2B (2021-2022) (AIHW). Between 2020-2021, SafeWork Australia reported the median compensation payment per mental health claim was approximately $58,615. Payments for all other workplace compensation types were estimated at around $15,743 by comparison.
Lifestyle factors and mental health
There are mental health management options available with pharmaceuticals, psychotherapy, alternative medicines, and brain stimulation. However, there are also lifestyle factors that can contribute to improving mental health symptoms:
Sufficient sleep quality and volume
Avoiding illicit substances
Completing regular physical activity
Find a grounded support network
Have regular social engagement
Ensuring your diet is nutritious
Getting sufficient rest
Moderating alcohol consumption
Planning and goal-setting
Support Links
References
https://www.aihw.gov.au/mental-health/overview/prevalence-and-impact-of-mental-illness
https://www.aihw.gov.au/mental-health/overview/prevalence-and-impact-of-mental-illness
https://www.aihw.gov.au/mental-health/topic-areas/expenditure
Kavanagh, B. E., Corney, K. B., Beks, H., Williams, L. J., Quirk, S. E., & Versace, V. L. (2023). A scoping review of the barriers and facilitators to accessing and utilising mental health services across regional, rural, and remote Australia. BMC Health Services Research, 23(1), 1060.