Demographics: Incidence and prevalence
The National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing 1997 revealed that one in five Australians over the age of 18 years or more met the criteria for a mental disorder at some time in the twelve month period prior to the survey taking place. As you will see in this topic these statistics are similar on a world wide scale and are expected to increase in the next two decades. The incidence and prevalence of mental disorder in children and adolescence will also be explored.
How big is the mental health problem?
Learning Journal? Are there really that many people with a mental health problem in Australia? What do you think?
The incidence and burden of mental illness/disorders is high and is expected to rise. According to the World Health Organisation, depression will constitute one of the greatest health problems worldwide by the year 2020. Furthermore, five of the leading causes of disability worldwide in 1990 were psychiatric conditions. (National Mental Health Strategy 1999).
Reading
Meadows G. and Singh B. (2001) Mental health in Australia. Collaborative Community Practice. Oxford University Press Sydney Chapter 9 pp. 115 to 135.
This outlines the extent of mental disorders in Australia. This whole chapter discusses the national surveys that were used to obtain Australian statistics. The results of these surveys have been used to introduce policy and procedures.
Find out more by exploring these web sites
WHO, The world health report 2001 - Mental health: New Understanding, New Hope
Gives a comprehensive global picture of contemporary issues in mental health. This WHO web site is an invaluable resource throughout this topic. The links on this site provide a global perspective of many of the issues that are discussed throughout this unit.
Surveys undertaken by the Australian government in the late 1990's revealed that almost 20% of all children and adolescents in Australia are affected by a mental health problem and in a twelve-month period 18% of adults suffer from one or more mental disorders. This site gives a comprehensive overview of issues surrounding mental health in Australia. It is important for you to spend some time working through this site.
Discussion board
Female anxiety vs male disorders
From your readings you will find that data collected from the Australian National Survey of Mental Health (1997) indicates that females are more likely to suffer from anxiety disorders while males are more likely to have a substance abuse disorder.
Why do you think this is so? Do you agree? Do you see the statistics changing in the future? What do you base your thoughts on?
Post your findings to the discussion board.
Learning Journal
Go back to your learning journal and record your thoughts and feelings on the incidence and prevalence of mental illness/disorder in the community now that you have studied the topic. Were you surprised by any of the statistics?