In a revelation that may come as a shock to many, the latest national health survey has painted a concerning picture of the state of Australia's mental health. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), a staggering 26.1 per cent of Australians are grappling with mental and behavioural conditions, making it the most common chronic health issue in the country.

The ABS's findings, which classify mental and behavioural conditions as chronic, place these concerns ahead of back problems (15.7 per cent) and arthritis (14.5 per cent) in prevalence. This data is a stark reminder that mental health is not just a personal issue but a significant public health challenge that affects a substantial portion of the population.

Over a quarter of Australians reported living with mental and behavioral conditions, the most common chronic health issue. Credit: Shutterstock

The survey also highlighted that one in every 14 Australians reported feelings of depression, and more than one in 10 felt anxious, nervous, or tense. These figures underscore the silent struggle that many individuals face daily, often hidden behind closed doors or masked by a brave face.

The report goes on to reveal that half of the population has at least one chronic condition, with women (52.3 per cent) slightly more likely than men (47.4 per cent) to be affected. Furthermore, the concept of multi-morbidity, where individuals live with more than one chronic condition simultaneously, is alarmingly high among those with mental and behavioural conditions, with 51.7 per cent experiencing additional health issues.

This data is not just numbers on a page; it represents real people in our communities, our families, and perhaps even ourselves. The implications are vast, affecting not only personal well-being but also the healthcare system, the workforce, and the broader economy.

The Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) has taken note of these troubling statistics. Its president, Dr. Nicole Higgins, has emphasized the importance of including mental health and wellbeing checks in early childhood. With the RACGP's own Health of the Nation report indicating an increase in GPs reporting mental health as a common reason for patient consults, it's clear that the issue is escalating.

The RACGP is advocating for mental health and wellbeing to be a staple in the draft national guidelines for early childhood health checks. This push comes amid a concerning trend of youth mental health issues, with a Beyondblue survey finding that a third of Australian parents with primary-school aged children are seriously concerned about their child's mental health.

The call to action is clear: Australia must take a holistic approach to health, recognizing that mental health issues in childhood can have profound and lasting effects into adulthood. Early intervention is not just beneficial; it's critical.

As members of the Seniors Discount Club, it's essential to be aware of these statistics, not only for our own health but for the well-being of our younger family members. Mental health is an intergenerational issue, and the support we provide to our children and grandchildren can have a lasting impact.

We encourage our readers to engage in open conversations about mental health with loved ones and to seek support when needed. Whether it's consulting with a GP, reaching out to mental health services, or simply talking to a friend, taking that first step can make all the difference.

Key Takeaways

• Over a quarter of Australians report living with mental and behavioural conditions, making it the most common chronic health issue.
• The latest national health survey highlighted that 26.1 per cent of Aussies have mental health issues, with depression and anxiety being significant concerns.
• The survey reveals a higher prevalence of chronic conditions among women compared to men, and a considerable proportion of those with a mental health condition also experience multi-morbidity.
• The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) emphasises the importance of including mental health and wellbeing in early childhood health checks to address the country's youth mental health crisis.

What are your thoughts on these findings? Have you or someone you know been affected by mental health issues? Share your experiences and let's foster a community of support and understanding. Remember, you're not alone, and together, we can work towards a healthier, happier Australia.

 

[IAN3005]

As I said.... we are becoming just like the USA

 

[MaccaMan]

What happened to cause that? Could it have anything at all to do with the Lockdowns, loss of jobs, not being able to go to school, not being able to be by loved one's sides whether in hospital or dying, not being able to socialise with family and/or friends? WAKE UP AUSTRALIA!!

 

[Dynamo]

What happened to cause that? Could it have anything at all to do with the Lockdowns, loss of jobs, not being able to go to school, not being able to be by loved one's sides whether in hospital or dying, not being able to socialise with family and/or friends? WAKE UP AUSTRALIA!!

All of those happenings on your thoughtful list accumulate over time

 

[Hollingworthlake]

From my experience as a social worker there are very few options available to meet issues such as these for ‘troubled youth’ Especially since it is often the case that immediate intervention is necessary. But of course it is not only youth who are affected and families often find it very difficult to access the help they need in a timely way.

 

[BellaB18]

I have suffered with mental illness since l was a child, back in the 60s 70s no one thought children suffered with anxiety. Of course as this was not addressed as l got to my teens it got worse then the black dog crept in. I was constantly told l was far to sensitive. I felt like it was a crime to be this way. I had no self esteem or confidence and lived very fearful until l had a break down in my late 30s, when I finally was referred to a wonderful physiotherapist. This beautiful caring lady gave me two years of her time once a week and turned my life around.
I was already on antidepressants and have been for 24 years and will remain on them for ever.
It was pointed out to me where this mental illness started, why and where l was let down in life. And how l was worthy and how much l had to offer and give in life.
I sadly can become very overwhelmed at times, due to all the different hats l wear in the family. Yes l am the go to person.
I have had a few more physical and mental breakdowns. I fall into a overwhelmed black hole. Try my best to care for myself and get on with life again. Physically it is very hard for me to go for a walk each day but l get my walker and little dog and we never miss a day. I talk to everyone which l find is a great social out let. It could be just a quick chat about the weather or nothing exciting but it's just great for my mental health.
I have reached out to help lines when l have needed to.
I have increased my meds when needed to.
I have learnt not to worry what other people might think of me. I feel more confident now than l ever have. I always put a smile on my face and be a kind person to all. That makes me feel good.
Please if you are struggling reach out to a good trusted friend or family member. If not a dr or help line. You may feel at your lowest ever, but remember to tell yourself tomorrow is a new day. Take one minute at a time if one hour at a time is overwhelming. And never feel shame because you are struggling.
Kind regards to all Vicki

 

[Ezzy]

I have suffered with mental illness since l was a child, back in the 60s 70s no one thought children suffered with anxiety. Of course as this was not addressed as l got to my teens it got worse then the black dog crept in. I was constantly told l was far to sensitive. I felt like it was a crime to be this way. I had no self esteem or confidence and lived very fearful until l had a break down in my late 30s, when I finally was referred to a wonderful physiotherapist. This beautiful caring lady gave me two years of her time once a week and turned my life around.
I was already on antidepressants and have been for 24 years and will remain on them for ever.
It was pointed out to me where this mental illness started, why and where l was let down in life. And how l was worthy and how much l had to offer and give in life.
I sadly can become very overwhelmed at times, due to all the different hats l wear in the family. Yes l am the go to person.
I have had a few more physical and mental breakdowns. I fall into a overwhelmed black hole. Try my best to care for myself and get on with life again. Physically it is very hard for me to go for a walk each day but l get my walker and little dog and we never miss a day. I talk to everyone which l find is a great social out let. It could be just a quick chat about the weather or nothing exciting but it's just great for my mental health.
I have reached out to help lines when l have needed to.
I have increased my meds when needed to.
I have learnt not to worry what other people might think of me. I feel more confident now than l ever have. I always put a smile on my face and be a kind person to all. That makes me feel good.
Please if you are struggling reach out to a good trusted friend or family member. If not a dr or help line. You may feel at your lowest ever, but remember to tell yourself tomorrow is a new day. Take one minute at a time if one hour at a time is overwhelming. And never feel shame because you are struggling.
Kind regards to all Vicki

I can relate to what you have stated here @ BellaB18. Born in 1952 both my brother & l were seeing Child Guidance Counselors. I was around 5 yo & my bro 3.

I had my first mental breakdown & admission to an institution @ 18 y.o., then 21 y.o. & again @ 47 y.o. In my early confinement l was told by my parents my problems related to to being unable to handle the change to teens, working etc. Hospital records received under the Freedom of Information Act confirmed that the problems had been caused by my parents.

Several Counselors of different qualifications have seen me over the years @ great cost to myself. Self esteem & self harm have been a major problem. Many people have easily 'taken me for a ride' possibly because l couldn't say no to a request from them for help. Some years have passed since last seeing a counsellor but there have been times when, feeling unable to cope, l was going to contact the last one l saw. My wife has been a great strength to me. During my first confinement my parents said to her, 'If you are going to leave him do so now so we can get him over this while he is in here'. Her reply was, 'No, l love him'.

 

[IAN3005]

What happened to cause that? Could it have anything at all to do with the Lockdowns, loss of jobs, not being able to go to school, not being able to be by loved one's sides whether in hospital or dying, not being able to socialise with family and/or friends? WAKE UP AUSTRALIA!!

Too late.....

 

[BellaB18]

I can relate to what you have stated here @ BellaB18. Born in 1952 both my brother & l were seeing Child Guidance Counselors. I was around 5 yo & my bro 3.

I had my first mental breakdown & admission to an institution @ 18 y.o., then 21 y.o. & again @ 47 y.o. In my early confinement l was told by my parents my problems related to to being unable to handle the change to teens, working etc. Hospital records received under the Freedom of Information Act confirmed that the problems had been caused by my parents.

Several Counselors of different qualifications have seen me over the years @ great cost to myself. Self esteem & self harm have been a major problem. Many people have easily 'taken me for a ride' possibly because l couldn't say no to a request from them for help. Some years have passed since last seeing a counsellor but there have been times when, feeling unable to cope, l was going to contact the last one l saw. My wife has been a great strength to me. During my first confinement my parents said to her, 'If you are going to leave him do so now so we can get him over this while he is in here'. Her reply was, 'No, l love him'.

Ezzy, bless you. Yes some parents have a lot to answer for
I understand where you are coming from. I am so glad you have a loving supporting wife. I am very fortunate to have a loving supporting husband.
One minute at a time on the bad days.
Keep strong and well
Kind regards Vicki

 

[Ezzy]

Ezzy, bless you. Yes some parents have a lot to answer for
I understand where you are coming from. I am so glad you have a loving supporting wife. I am very fortunate to have a loving supporting husband.
One minute at a time on the bad days.
Keep strong and well
Kind regards Vicki

Vicki, bless you too. We really are fortunate to have such supportive loved ones.
I needed her support most when working in the prison dept riot squad.
We were going out together for 2 years before marrying, 51 years now.
Yes, one minute at a time on those days (when l aren't sleeping 12 hours).
My mosaics & cardmaking help a lot.
Thankyou for your support.
Kind regards Ezzy.

 

[Hollingworthlake]

I can relate to what you have stated here @ BellaB18. Born in 1952 both my brother & l were seeing Child Guidance Counselors. I was around 5 yo & my bro 3.

I had my first mental breakdown & admission to an institution @ 18 y.o., then 21 y.o. & again @ 47 y.o. In my early confinement l was told by my parents my problems related to to being unable to handle the change to teens, working etc. Hospital records received under the Freedom of Information Act confirmed that the problems had been caused by my parents.

Several Counselors of different qualifications have seen me over the years @ great cost to myself. Self esteem & self harm have been a major problem. Many people have easily 'taken me for a ride' possibly because l couldn't say no to a request from them for help. Some years have passed since last seeing a counsellor but there have been times when, feeling unable to cope, l was going to contact the last one l saw. My wife has been a great strength to me. During my first confinement my parents said to her, 'If you are going to leave him do so now so we can get him over this while he is in here'. Her reply was, 'No, l love him'.

So glad you have a partner who loves and supports you

 

[Ezzy]

So glad you have a partner who loves and supports you

Thankyou for your kind words

I have told her often, if not for her l wouldn't be here today. She now regularly finds a card bought from Temu with beautiful words printed on the front & with a message inside from me. (I find l am better @ writing my feelings).

 

[BellaB18]

Hi Ezzy,
Just wanted to say hi, and hope you are well and happy.
Just to let you know someone does care and just a hello check in.
I hope your beautiful wife is keeping well too.
Kind regards Vicki

 

[Ezzy]

Hi Vicki,
Nice to hear from you today.
Thankyou for your support. Just taking each day as it comes.
The past fortnight has been pleasant with a delightful surprise Tuesday which should keep me busy at times for the next 12 months in our Seniors Social Club.
My wife is well too, except for her health problems. Thankyou for asking.
I hope you & your husband are as well as can be expected too.
Kind regards Ezzy (Eric).

 

[BellaB18]

Hi Vicki,
Nice to hear from you today.
Thankyou for your support. Just taking each day as it comes.
The past fortnight has been pleasant with a delightful surprise Tuesday which should keep me busy at times for the next 12 months in our Seniors Social Club.
My wife is well too, except for her health problems. Thankyou for asking.
I hope you & your husband are as well as can be expected too.
Kind regards Ezzy (Eric).

Morning Eric,
So pleased you are doing the best you can and so happy to hear about your exciting news.
Best to keep our minds busy because to much thinking is not good for you and l.
My love and thoughts to Mrs Eric. Health problems are no fun. We just have to put one foot in front of the other each day with a big smile. I do understand how challenging life can be with health problems.
My week has been thrown a curve ball. My son has come home due to his marriage breaking down. I am coping well. As we say one day at a time. We will see which way it goes and just take it as it comes.
My husband isn't coping to well with it. He is about to finish up his working life and really isn't coping with a child returning to the nest. Always something to deal with.
Anyway l just wanted to check in to see how you are travelling and l am thrilled to hear you are going well. Do your best to stay well. Don't get overwhelmed with your new adventure, just one minute at a time and enjoy.
Good health and love to you and Mrs Eric
Vicki

 

[Ezzy]

Morning Eric,
So pleased you are doing the best you can and so happy to hear about your exciting news.
Best to keep our minds busy because to much thinking is not good for you and l.
My love and thoughts to Mrs Eric. Health problems are no fun. We just have to put one foot in front of the other each day with a big smile. I do understand how challenging life can be with health problems.
My week has been thrown a curve ball. My son has come home due to his marriage breaking down. I am coping well. As we say one day at a time. We will see which way it goes and just take it as it comes.
My husband isn't coping to well with it. He is about to finish up his working life and really isn't coping with a child returning to the nest. Always something to deal with.
Anyway l just wanted to check in to see how you are travelling and l am thrilled to hear you are going well. Do your best to stay well. Don't get overwhelmed with your new adventure, just one minute at a time and enjoy.
Good health and love to you and Mrs Eric
Vicki

Hello Vicki,
It is sad that your son is experiencing a marriage breakdown but good for him to be able to return to where he is comfortable & can receive the support needed. Our 2nd eldest had problems in her marriage days before her 2nd child was born when he admitted to his infidelity. (they separated, divorced, he re-married, had another two children & repeated this again & divorced). Eventually everything worked out o.k. for our daughter who had another child & remarried.
We still have our 51 y.o. at home with no desire to leave.
I had to retire 25 years ago @ age 47 without time to plan. I sincerely hope your husband can settle into this without too many problems despite the set back. I didn't find the sudden full stop easy but he may have planned beforehand.
I have been on the Committee of our Seniors Social Club for some years & at our (stormy) AGM the person who put his name forward for the position of Events Organiser/Assistant Secretary withdrew, the Chairman asked for a replacement, l volunteered & the rest is history. There are only about 4 luncheons, 2 raffles & an evening of entertainment with chicken & chips annualy. A challenge never done before but l am confident because l have been promised lotsa help from our President & other members.
Wishing you both good health & love too.
Eric

 

[BellaB18]

Hello Vicki,
It is sad that your son is experiencing a marriage breakdown but good for him to be able to return to where he is comfortable & can receive the support needed. Our 2nd eldest had problems in her marriage days before her 2nd child was born when he admitted to his infidelity. (they separated, divorced, he re-married, had another two children & repeated this again & divorced). Eventually everything worked out o.k. for our daughter who had another child & remarried.
We still have our 51 y.o. at home with no desire to leave.
I had to retire 25 years ago @ age 47 without time to plan. I sincerely hope your husband can settle into this without too many problems despite the set back. I didn't find the sudden full stop easy but he may have planned beforehand.
I have been on the Committee of our Seniors Social Club for some years & at our (stormy) AGM the person who put his name forward for the position of Events Organiser/Assistant Secretary withdrew, the Chairman asked for a replacement, l volunteered & the rest is history. There are only about 4 luncheons, 2 raffles & an evening of entertainment with chicken & chips annualy. A challenge never done before but l am confident because l have been promised lotsa help from our President & other members.
Wishing you both good health & love too.
Eric

Hi Eric,
Thank you for your kind reply and words of support. Our daughter suffered similar to your daughter. She had their third child who the ex husband didn't believe was his. Bit hard not to see the little fella is his as the kids are half Asian the ex is Asian. He was a controlling evil man even though it finished nine years ago he is still causing trouble.
Thankfully our daughter has moved on has a lovely partner and they have a little boy together. So l don't have to worry to much about my daughter now. Just the normal parental and grandparent worry.
Now it's our sons turn. I don't truly know how things will pan out. I don't want him to go back but if he does l have to accept it. He married a girl who had three kids they had two together. The step kids are in the teens and seem to be doing as they wish. My son is not allowed to discipline them. But he can put a roof over their heads food in their tummies clothes on their backs education take them to sport and entertainment. Working two jobs. We as parents have to bite our tongues and just be supportive.
Gosh a child still at home at fifty one. I suppose it's a compliment to mum and dad really.
No l think hubby will be a bit like you were when finishing up his working life. I have suggested he needs to find things to do and believe me there is heaps to do around the house to keep his mind busy.
Anyway he has to look after me now
I think that is great you put your hand up at the seniors social club. You will do a fantastic job. Just don't let anyone get in your head. You know there is always experts who know nothing.
Have a lovely weekend. I shall keep in touch to check in with you just to say hi.
Keep well and happy.
Kind regards and love to you and the family Vicki 🪻

 

[Ezzy]

Hi Eric,
Thank you for your kind reply and words of support. Our daughter suffered similar to your daughter. She had their third child who the ex husband didn't believe was his. Bit hard not to see the little fella is his as the kids are half Asian the ex is Asian. He was a controlling evil man even though it finished nine years ago he is still causing trouble.
Thankfully our daughter has moved on has a lovely partner and they have a little boy together. So l don't have to worry to much about my daughter now. Just the normal parental and grandparent worry.
Now it's our sons turn. I don't truly know how things will pan out. I don't want him to go back but if he does l have to accept it. He married a girl who had three kids they had two together. The step kids are in the teens and seem to be doing as they wish. My son is not allowed to discipline them. But he can put a roof over their heads food in their tummies clothes on their backs education take them to sport and entertainment. Working two jobs. We as parents have to bite our tongues and just be supportive.
Gosh a child still at home at fifty one. I suppose it's a compliment to mum and dad really.
No l think hubby will be a bit like you were when finishing up his working life. I have suggested he needs to find things to do and believe me there is heaps to do around the house to keep his mind busy.
Anyway he has to look after me now
I think that is great you put your hand up at the seniors social club. You will do a fantastic job. Just don't let anyone get in your head. You know there is always experts who know nothing.
Have a lovely weekend. I shall keep in touch to check in with you just to say hi.
Keep well and happy.
Kind regards and love to you and the family Vicki 🪻

Thanks Vicki. Will reply soon .

 

[Ezzy]

Thanks Vicki. Will reply soon .

Hi Vicky,
Sorry about the delay. Had things to catch up with. The weekend has been good so far, just resting. I promised myself to do something on my mosaic in this school holidays but have done nothing (we stop for school holidays & Christmas & start back Tues evening).
With respect to your son, but he appears to have made a rod for his back with those teens & unable to discipline. I worked with a chap who moved in with a lady with teens & had to put a lock on his (& partner's) bedroom door because the children were going in & helping themselves while they were at work. Doesn't make life easy when the step children have no respect for your son. All we can do as parents is to be there & support them as we have done when they were young.
If hubby hasn't things to do he could start a hobby, mine was carpentry, but there was always little maintenance tasks.
I don't intend letting those experts fill my head with ideas at the social club (don't they say an expert is just a drip under pressure?)
Having our daughter still @ home could partly be due to past events. Our 64 y.o. neighbour when we lived in another suburb at the time & when she was 12 tried to take advantage of her. We found out after an episode on A COUNTRY PRACTICE when she went to the school counsellor. When interviewed by the Police he denied everything & Police admit they erred by interviewing him in front of his wife. (we had moved house, new area & a new school for the 4 children).
Be good but if you can't be good (as they say), don't get caught. Catch up soon.
We may need to exchange email addresses to keep these private, perhaps?

 

[BellaB18]

Morning Eric, great idea about email address.
Will keep in touch soon.
Keep well and happy.
Love to you and the family
Vicki