mental+health+issues+in+Australia


 * //Name: Esirina Chiketa //**
 * //Student number: 7498365 //**
 * //Tutor: Emily Mann //**

About 450 million people suffer from mental and behavioral problems worldwide of which 20% are children and adolescence and this indicates that mental problems begins at an earlier age ,therefore there is greater need to address the issues around (World Health Organization(WHO),2011). WHO (2011) further described mental health problems as more common among the poorer nations, however that’s not the case as in Australia mental health problems are quite common and are key challenges for the community and the government (Victoria Government, 2008).

As shown in the picture below, mental illness signs and symptoms are quite common among society. This essay describes the literature relevant to mental illness through analysis of the artefact, describing cultural and social issues associated with mental health and finally a reflection on this topic is presented.


 * Artefact: **

This picture shows five different people with different age and sex demonstrating the nature of mental health issues in the community. The picture was taken from a United Kingdom (website) story on depression and anxiety. The artefact demonstrates people gripped with anxiety, depression, worry, hopelessness, loneliness, restlessness, and altered thought patterns which are key features of mental health problems. Moreover, it demonstrates that these issues can affect anyone in the community, that is, male, female, children and adults alike and knows no racial barriers.

The artefact represents people with mental health problems such as depression, anxiety and shows how people react when faced by mental problems. Depression is one of the major mental illnesses in Australia as it accounts for 34.3% of all mental health problems related issues dealt with and 2.8% of health related problems faced during 2008 and 2009 (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), 2011). According to Australian Institute of Health and welfare (2011) depression is an area of high focus in mental illness as it is associated with high prevalence and linked with drug use, substance use, alcohol misuse and dependence, eating disorder and obesity. Depression is also a major public issue in Australia as it associated with other health conditions and is highly linked to suicide across all age groups (AIHW, 2011).
 * The Public Health Issue **

The World Health Organization, (2011) defined health as “state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease" therefore mental health is necessary for an individual to function effectively and be able to contribute to the community. Mental illness is considered as a major contributor to the disease burden of Australia accounting for 24% of years lost due to disability (AIHW, 2011). Mental health problems are related to different behavioural emotional and cognitive disorders that affect the normal function of an individual and as a result will cause poor performances or coping and will develop into mental illnesses (Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet, 2011). According to an ABS (2007) survey approximately one in five people were reported to have a mental illness.Anxiety disorders, mood disorders and substance use disorders were among the common types of mental illnesses experienced in Australia, however anxiety disorders were the most common type of mental illness and women were the most affected (ABS, 2008).Australian institute of health and welfare (AIHW), 2011 identify depression as one of the common problems of mental illness reported in 2007 national survey. Depression was also associated with suicidal and some mental health problems among different age groups but was commonly among women, as a result could led to alcohol and drug abuse, anorexia or obesity (AIHW, 2011).
 * Literature Review **

According to ABS, (2008) mental illness was more common among young unemployed individuals, people who had criminal history, homeless and single parents and this demonstrates that the illness is associated with social issues and is more common among struggling individuals. Australian Indigenous Health Info Net ,(2011) described culture as playing a very important role in determining the presents of mental illness since individual backgrounds are different .Therefore specific assessment tools should be used to a specific group that shares the common goals ( Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet, 2011).

Fraser, et al (2005) discovered through their research that individuals who lived in the rural poorer areas were relatively at a high risk of developing mental illness in Australia and a decline in facilities generally affect their well being. Fraser, et al (2005) attributed this to low social economic status housing and health inequalities among the group. The rural people face so many disadvantages such as limited access to medical facilities, health foods, recreation facilities and poor general environmental structures (Fraser, et al 2005). These life stressors expose them to bad health behaviours such as smoking, substance use and alcohol use which increase their chances of mental distress (Fraser et al, 2005).

A study conducted in Australia among older participants identified some physical and mental health impacts associated with the global financial crises (Sargent-Cox, Butterworth & Anstey, 2011). Through the study it was further identified that older people who were experiencing hardships during this period were facing anxiety and depression episodes due to uncertainty of their future and as a result increased their mental distress (Sargent-Cox et al, 2011). However, according to Sargent-Cox et al (2011) their study also demonstrated that the participants faced less mental distress before the global financial crisis. Since the study was conducted recently this also suggests that current economic strains also contribute to mental problems. A few limitations of the study were identified as only a sample of the older Australians was used which does not represent the whole population and there could be other factors related to mental distress apart from global financial crisis.

The mental health of adolescents in remand prison has also been seen as a challenge for the country and a major public health issue. According to Swayer, et al (2010) in their study on adolescent aged between 13 to 17 years in prison, demonstrated that adolescents in remand were facing more health problems such as, suicidal ideations, and physical disorders compared to the general adolescence in the community. Their study identified that separation from parents and their absence from school escalated these mental and physical problems (Swayer, et al, 2010).However a greater number of adolescence experiencing mental and physical problems were from the indigenous population and this was related to their over representation in prison (Swayer, et al, 2010).A major limitation of the study was the use of questionnaire which was individual responses and the response might have been inaccurate.

The Mental health strategy is a programme organised by the government to help address mental illness around the country. The main purpose of this plan is to prevent and promote awareness through health education to both the patients and the community (Department of health and aging, 2011). According to the Department of health and aging (2011) this mental health strategy provide support to the affected individuals and families in reducing the burden of the illness. However there are many different organisations which in collaboration with the government are working towards reducing the burden of the illness and reduce the stigma associated with mental illness. In particular beyond blue is a non profit organisation which address mental health issues mainly depression, anxiety (beyondblue, 2011). This organisation also provides education to patients, families, health professionals as well as supporting research studies on depression (beyondblue, 2011).As further suggested by WHO, (2011) a multi sectoral approach to health promotion is required to assist in promotion of awareness and help reduce the disease prevalence.

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Mental illness is associated with many cultural and societal issues around the globe which varies accordingly and as a result causes health inequalities among society. According to Elliot & Masters (2009) health inequalities were also due to different social classes based on economic status, hence mental illness was common among those in low social economic class. Furthermore, lower social economic status is related to many disadvantages such as lower income, unemployment, low levels of education as a result their living standards are very poor and may be below standard this also contributed to anxiety and depression among the group (Elliot & Masters, 2009).
 * <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Cultural and Social Analysis **

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">People living under difficult circumstances may not participate in activities that may promote their well being and those of the rest of the community and this causes a great impact on their health and increases their risk of mental illness due to loneliness and isolation (Elliot & Masters, 2009). Social support is also considered as a very important aspect in mental health which if strong could assist in prevention and promoting awareness of mental illness. However, there is increased risk of mental illness with reduced social support due to isolation from the other society members (Elliot & Masters, 2009). According to Bhugra & Arya (2005) immigrants are considered at high risk of developing mental illness due to cultural and social differences with the host nation. These immigrant faces isolation from the rest of their families, different climate, social groups and racial discrimination and this increases risk of depression and anxiety (Bhugra & Arya, 2005).

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">People suffering from mental illness faces many challenges in the community which include stigma attached to the illness as a result may worsen their illness and increase the prevalence of the illness in society (Overton & Medina, 2008).According to Overton & Medina (2008) the aspect of stigma began during middle age when mental illness was associated with immorality and as a result sufferers were punished and killed. The effects of stigma causes discrimination against mentally ill patients and isolation from the community which causes lack of employment, reduced access to education and health facilities as well as limited accommodation facilities (Overton & Medina, 2008).Furthermore, Overton & Medina (2008) described stigma as affecting the self esteem of patients with mental illness and causing them to expect negative outcomes in their lives. However, Overton & Medina (2008) suggested addressing issues associated with stigma to reduce its effect on mental illness and improve their wellbeing. For example, educating the society would help them to understand mental illness and correct their misconceptions and this could be implemented through health education programs through direct contact with the sufferers (Overton & Medina, 2008). Overton & Medina (2008) also suggested equipping mental health professionals with education and counselling skills necessary when addressing mental illness sufferers.

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">As indicated by the ABS (2009) mental illness affects up to 45% of the Australian population aged between 16 to 85 years; hence there is greater need to address this illness. The ABS (2009) further states the cost of mental illness was estimated at $ 20 billon per annum which is a significant amount towards the healthcare expenditure for the nation. During 1999 to 2003 about 2, 4% of the indigenous deaths were related to mental illnesses (AIHW, 2009). AIHW (2009) further states that mental illness is associated with poor health, increase hospital consultations, isolation and stigma which cause a greater burden on the population. In particular there is greater need to improve awareness of this issue to reduce its impact on society.As indicated in various literatures from research articles ,government and non government organisation reports above, further attention on those groups affected such as the indigenous, low social economic individuals and the most affected age groups is required by public health professionals to reduce the disease burden and improve the social and wellbeing of the population.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">**Analysis of Artefact and Reflection**

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">The artefact represents mental illness and shows some major signs of depression such as sadness hopelessness and loneliness. This artefact strongly demonstrates how serious mental illness affects the appearance and functioning of an individual. In particular the literature demonstrated the statistics which I was surprised and not aware that mental illness is a major burden which affects approximately half of the population and most people are at high risk.

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">At this point I have realised that there is great need for the community and the government to work together in reducing the burden of the illness. Therefore the challenges faced by mental illness patients need attention .The challenges mental illness sufferers face in society include stigma, discrimination as well as isolation. Through health education and awareness of mental illness the challenges may be reduced. This essay helped me to understand mental illness which as a result has given me a different perception on mental illness.

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">**References**

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2009).Australian Social Trends. Mental Health. Retrieved fromhttp: <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">[|www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/Latestproducts/4326.0Main%20Features32007?opendocument&tabname=Summary&prodno=4326.0&issue=2007&num=&view]=

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Australian Government. Department of health and ageing. (2011).Mental health .Retrieved from []

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Australian indigenous HealthInfoNet. (2011).Background information.Retrieved fromhttp: <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">[|www.aihw.gov.au/mental-health-priority-area/]

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Beyondblue. (2011). About us .Retrieved from []

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Bhugra, D., & Arya, P. (2005). Ethnic density, cultural congruity and mental illness in migrants. [Article]. //International Review of Psychiatry, 17//(2), 133-137. doi: 10.1080/09540260500049984

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Elliot, L., Masters, H. (2009).Mental health inequalities and mental health nursing. //Journal of psychiatry and mental health nursing, 16(8).762-71.//

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Fraser, C., Jackson, H., Judd, F., Komiti, A., Robins, G., Murray, G., Humphrey, J., Pattisons, P., Hodgins, G. (2005). Changing places: the impact of rural restructuring on mental health in Australia. //Health &amp; Place, 11//(2), 157-171. doi: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2004.03.003

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Overton, S. L. M. S. L. (2008). The Stigma of Mental Illness. [Article]. //Journal of Counseling & Development, 86//(2), 143-151.

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Sargent-Cox, K., Butterworth, P., & Anstey, K. J. (2011). The global financial crisis and psychological health in a sample of Australian older adults: A longitudinal study. //Social Science &amp; Medicine, 73//(7), 1105-1112. doi: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2011.06.063

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Sawyer, M. G., Guidolin, M., Schulz, K. L., McGinnes, B., Zubrick, S. R., & Baghurst, P. A. (2010). The mental health and wellbeing of adolescents on remand in Australia. //Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry, 44//(6), 551-559. doi: 10.3109/00048671003601418

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Social anxiety self help. (2011). Mental health in the UK .Retrieved from []

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Victorian Department of Human Services. (2008).Because mental health matters: a new focus for mental health and wellbeing in Victoria. Retrieved from []

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">World Health Organization. (2001).Investigating mental health. Retrieved from []

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">World Health Organization. (2011).Mental health. Retrieved from []


 * <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 16px;">Discussion Board **

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