Trigger warning: This article covers themes related to depression, mental health challenges and emotional distress. Reader discretion is advised.
Mental wellbeing is fundamental to overall health, and mental health issues can significantly impact the lives of individuals, creating a ripple effect across communities and society. With statistics indicating that one in five Australians experiences a mental disorder each year, it’s clear that mental wellbeing is not just a personal issue but a national concern.
Across Australia, a diverse range of therapeutic professions form the backbone of the country’s mental health workforce. From psychologists to social workers and mental health nurses, their work supporting people and advocating for better health outcomes is key for effective mental health care delivery.
In this article, we explore the current mental health landscape in Australia and how pursuing a career in mental health can positively impact people and local communities.
Mental health landscape in Australia
Australia’s mental health landscape is complex and multifaceted. The National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing (NSMHW - 2020-2022) showed that 43 per cent of Australians aged 16 to 85 have experienced a mental health disorder at some point in their lives and 22 per cent had experienced a disorder in the previous 12 months, making mental health conditions one of the most prevalent chronic conditions in the country.
Mental health disorders manifest in various forms, affecting diverse demographic groups across the nation. Based on the latest research, some of the more common mental health disorders in Australia include:
- Anxiety disorders: The most common mental health condition, anxiety affects around 17 per cent of adults annually.
- Affective disorders: Each year, around 7.5 per cent of Australians experience an affective disorder. These are conditions that affect a person’s mood, emotions and overall emotional state.
- Substance use disorders: Approximately 8.4 per cent of people experience a comorbid mental disorder and a physical condition due to substance abuse.
- Eating disorders: Approximately 4.45 per cent of the population have lived with an eating disorder for more than five years.
Increased awareness and a growing need for support are also evident for the following mental health conditions:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): Often caused by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, PTSD is especially relevant in communities affected by natural disasters, violence or war. An estimated 11 per cent of Australians experience PTSD in their lifetimes.
- Mood disorders among youth: There’s a rising concern about youth mental health and the increase of mood disorders, including depression and subsequent self-harm, among teenagers and young adults. Some reports cite social media influence, academic pressure and societal expectations as leading causes. Studies show that one in five children aged 11 to 17 years experience high levels of psychological distress.
- Dementia and age-related mental health conditions: As Australia’s population ages, there’s a growing focus on mental health conditions that predominantly affect older adults, like dementia. Recent studies show that 411,100 people in Australia live with dementia. This is equivalent to 15 in every 1,000 Australians is living with dementia.
Who is seeking support?
Dr Shiromi Wimalaguna, a general practitioner and the founder of The Cloud GP, says she has observed an increase in youth presenting with depression, anxiety and addiction alongside patients exhibiting more severe symptoms due to system inadequacies.
The statistics echo a similar sentiment, with the National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing (NSMHW - 2020-2022) showing that from 2020 to 2022, 17.4 per cent of Australians aged 16 to 85 visited a health professional for their mental health within 12 months of responding to the survey questions for the study and that 8.4 per cent of Australians presented with both a mental disorder and a physical condition.
The same study found that 17.6 per cent of Australians were dispensed at least one PBS-subsidised mental health-related medication in the 12 months prior to the survey, indicating a widespread need for support in managing mental health conditions.
“Mental health illnesses impact not just the individual but ripple out to affect work productivity, relationships and personal identity,” says Dr Wimalaguna. She adds that moving forward, healthcare providers must embrace a multidisciplinary approach, foster collaboration across sectors and promote mental wellbeing in diverse populations.
Factors affecting mental health in Australia
A myriad of factors influence the mental health landscape in Australia, including:
- Genetic predispositions: A family history of mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety can increase risk.
- Lifestyle factors: Sedentary lifestyles, poor diet and drug and alcohol abuse can significantly affect mental wellbeing.
- Cultural identity and pride: Pressure to conform to cultural norms or expectations can conflict with personal values and contribute to mental health conditions.
- Socioeconomic and environmental stressors: Trauma, stress and societal stress, such as the current cost of living crisis, can also play a role in mental health status.
- Gender identity and sexuality: A study by the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows that LGBTQIA+ people are more likely to experience a mental disorder than heterosexual people.
- Social support networks: Lack of supportive relationships or social isolation can exacerbate mental health issues.
- Mental health stigma and barriers to access: Stigma and limited access to mental health services can also impact mental wellbeing.
With so many mental health risk factors at play, Dr Wimalaguna stresses the need for a mindset shift around mental health support. “It’s so important that society move past the narrative of mental illness being something you can simply avoid with a bit of willpower and an improved outlook, when there are many influences that play a significant role.”
Mental health career pathways
The demand for skilled mental health professionals continues to rise in Australia, underscoring the vital role of general practitioners, psychiatrists, psychologists, mental health nurses and social workers in supporting patients with mental health concerns.
Dr Wimalaguna has witnessed a notable shift towards a more integrated approach to mental healthcare, with an emphasis on early intervention, holistic treatment modalities and de-stigmatisation. “The role of mental health clinicians has evolved to provide comprehensive care that addresses the immediate challenges while also considering long-term impacts and prevention strategies,” she says.
Despite diverse career opportunities in this space, Australia continues to experience healthcare skills shortages. The problem is particularly evident in rural and regional parts of the country that struggle to attract and retain healthcare staff.
Pursuing a career in mental health can be immensely rewarding if you’re passionate about making a difference for people and local communities. GlobalHealth Education’s university partners offer a range of postgraduate mental health courses designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in this field.
Mental health
From a Graduate Certificate in Child and Adolescent Mental Health to a Graduate Diploma of Mental Health Nursing, each course will equip you with the knowledge and skills to provide compassionate support and effective interventions for those in need.
Counselling
Whether you study a Graduate Diploma in Counselling or a Master of Counselling, you’ll gain valuable knowledge and skills in various therapeutic modalities and counselling techniques to help you support individuals, families and groups.
Psychology
If you want to understand the science behind how and why people think, feel and behave, studying psychology will help you explore the complexities of the human mind. If your goal is to become a registered psychologist, consider pursuing a Graduate Diploma in Psychology (Advanced) as your postgraduate study.
Social work
There are many AASW-accredited social work courses, like a Master of Social Work (Qualifying), you can undertake to prepare you for a rewarding career in social work. With a strong emphasis on ethical practice, cultural competence and systemic change, you'll learn to address social issues and support vulnerable people from all walks of life.
These courses, available 100 per cent online, provide the flexibility to study from anywhere in Australia, making it easier for you to upskill or transition into a new and fulfilling career.
Turn awareness into action from today
If you’re passionate about helping people and want to support them in their mental health journey, explore our list of courses and select one. Enquire to speak to a Student Enrolment Advisor who can provide personalised guidance on choosing the right postgraduate course for you.
The courses below are listed by qualification level, from lowest to highest.
