A major study of thousands of Australians has for the first time mapped the diversity of attitudes towards the issue of mental health.
The Mental Health Compass released today by Australians for Mental Health has revealed a clear majority of Australians believe the nation is facing a mental health crisis and want more from governments, communities and services. And most believe that solutions are within reach, remaining optimistic despite the scale of mental ill-health being experienced.
But the study has also revealed where Australians diverge on their views towards mental health, including on whether they see it as an urgent national issue or not. The report shows 59% of Australians agreed the nation was facing a mental health crisis that needed to be urgently addressed, while 41% believed not every challenge is a mental health issue and we should stop calling it a crisis.
"Australians understandably come from many different backgrounds, and have many different experiences which influence their views on mental health, but we need to help everyone understand that we are undeniably experiencing a mental health crisis in this country right now," Executive Director of Australians for Mental Health Chris Gambian said.
"We want as many Australians working together as possible so we can respond to this crisis."
The report also found most Australians recognise that mental health is a social and economic issue that affects us all, not just a private medical matter.
Loneliness also shone through as a major issue for Australians, with 37 per cent saying they often felt lonely and isolated. Nine per cent of Australians said they had no one they could trust to talk to, and a further 18 per cent said they didn't discuss personal matters with people around them.
"This study shows how important mental health is to people across the country and how ready they are for governments to do more," Australians for Mental Health Executive Director Chris Gambian said.
The major study also found that artificial intelligence was being used by Australians for mental health support, with one in 10 turning to generative AI for advice about their mental health.
Key findings:
59% say Australia is facing a mental health crisis that needs urgent action.
76% believe we can fix the crisis with the right approach, investment and leadership.
58% say we should work together so every person has what they need to live well, versus 42% who say it is up to each person to manage their own wellbeing.
88% agree mental health is just as important as physical health.
Loneliness is widespread. 37% often feel lonely and isolated. 9% have no one they trust to talk to, and a further 18% do not discuss personal matters with people in their life.
Cost of living pressure is seen as the primary factor affecting mental health (73%), followed by rising loneliness and social isolation (45%) and limited access to affordable housing (39%).
One in ten have used generative AI for mental health advice (11%), however 72% are worried about people turning to AI as a therapist and value human support.
If governments prioritise mental health, people expect the main benefits to be taking pressure off hospitals and the health system (51%) and more Australians being able to live full, meaningful lives (55%).
76% support requiring governments to consider mental health impacts when designing new policies and laws.
"The public wants policy decisions weighed against their mental health consequences, and they want systems and environments that make it easier to live well. It's very clear what needs to happen. Governments must make mental health outcomes part of every major policy decision," Chris Gambian said. "Australians are feeling the squeeze of the cost-of-living emergency, and too many are experiencing loneliness and isolation. These pressures are hurting our mental health right now.
"Addressing the basics like affordable housing and cost pressures while strengthening community connection will make a real difference. But we require bold action from our leaders on all sides of parliament to ensure the wellbeing of Australians is at the heart of all decisions."
