Around 4.5 million adult Australians (nearly 20% of the population) experience mental illness each year. What's more, over 45% of the adult population will have a mental illness at some point in their lives.
Mental health issues affect all of us, either directly or as a family member, carer, friend or workmate of a person with a mental illness.
The impact of mental health issues on both health and wellbeing can be severe. People with mental illness generally have poorer physical health, are more likely to abuse alcohol and other drugs and to have higher rates of suicide. They are also more likely than the rest of the population to experience homelessness, be imprisoned, have their children placed in out-of-home care or be unemployed.
For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, there is greater prevalence of mental health issues compared to the general population. Research indicates that 27% of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experience high or very high levels of psychological distress; twice the rate of the non-Indigenous population. Additionally, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are hospitalised at twice the rate of non-Indigenous people for instances of self-harm.
What Red Cross does
Red Cross works from a socially inclusive approach to remove the stigma around mental health issues and to promote the participation of people with a mental illness in the community.
We recognise that mental health is a state of wellbeing. It is not just the absence of illness, but also the ability to maintain relationships, cope with stress, contribute to the community and enjoy life.
We work in collaboration with government, other service providers and communities to improve the mental health of Australians.
Promoting health and wellbeing for young people
- save-a-mate (SAM)
Education and support on youth health issues, particularly alcohol and other drug use and mental health. Currently provided in ACT, NSW, Qld, SA, Tas, Vic and WA.
- SAM Our Way
Supporting locally design activities to provide education to young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people on health issues, particularly alcohol and other drug use and mental health. Currently provided in NT, Qld, SA and WA.
- Talk OUT Loud
Mental health workshops to reduce stigma and encourage young people to seek help and help each other. Currently provided in NSW, Qld, SA and WA.
Building bridges back into the community
- Personal Helpers and Mentors Program (PHaMs)
Supporting people recovering from mental illness to develop skills and confidence as well as access services and participate in their community. Currently provided in NT, Qld, SA and WA.
- MATES
Assisting people with mental health issues who are experiencing isolation to expand their social networks. Currently provided in ACT, SA and Tas.
- Bridges
Strengthening social connections to support the wellbeing and mental health of socially isolated participants. Currently provided in Qld
- Housing Support Mental Health Service
Supporting people with a mental illness to access and maintain long term stable accommodation. Currently provided in WA.
- Practical Support Program
Helping mothers with a mental health problem who are facing challenges looking after their infant. Currently provided in WA.
- Carer Respite
Supporting carers of people with a mental illness to take a break. Currently provided in WA.
Download the Red Cross mental health brochure.