Common Barriers to Mental Health Treatment

Key Points

• Around 2 out of 5 individuals in Australia, or roughly 8.6 million individuals aged 16 to 85, experienced some type of mental health disorder. 
• Many people continue to live with mental health issues due to common barriers that prevent them from seeking proper treatment.
• Some of these barriers to mental health treatment include the social stigma associated with seeking professional help, lack of awareness regarding mental health, the high cost of services, and the scarcity of available resources and treatment options.
• As an organisation dedicated to helping NDIS participants, Sureway Health & Wellbeing is committed to making mental health support and other essential services accessible to everyone. 

Summary

Mental health disorder is a prevalent issue that affects almost half of the population in the country. Unfortunately, many of those who are suffering from mental health issues are not able to access the right type of support or treatment options that they need due to certain barriers. These include the negative perception associated with mental health treatment and the lack of available services in rural and regional areas.

Outline

• Introduction
• Common Barriers to Mental Health
  • Social Stigma
  • Lack of Awareness
  • Cost of Services
  • Shortage of Care and Access
  • Accessibility in Rural and Regional Areas

Mental health issues are on the rise globally. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that depression, a prevalent mental health concern, is a leading cause of disability – with those experiencing severe conditions possibly dying up to two decades earlier.

In Australia, it is estimated that over 2 in 5 people, aged 16-85, have experienced a mental disorder—about 44% or 8.6 million individuals. Alarmingly, 1 in 7 children and adolescents aged 4-17 faced mental illness last year. Anxiety disorders are the most diagnosed, followed by affective disorders like depression and then substance use disorders, especially alcohol dependence.

Briefly, on disorders:

• Anxiety Disorder: Characterised by excessive worry, these disorders can disrupt daily life. Examples include Generalised Anxiety Disorder and Panic Disorder. More Info

• Affective Disorder: These mood disorders comprise major depression and bipolar disorder. Symptoms range from sadness to impulsive behaviour. More Info

• Substance Use Disorder: Excessive alcohol and drug use can damage the brain and organs. Around 1 in 20 Australians struggle with addiction, mainly tobacco and alcohol. More Info

Common Barriers to Mental Health

Globally, many initiatives address mental health concerns, yet individuals with these issues continue to face numerous challenges. These barriers include societal stigma, insufficient awareness, prohibitive costs, and limited access, especially in rural areas, which compound the difficulties faced by those with mental health disorders.

Social Stigma

One of the most profound barriers is the negative perception and misconceptions about mental health. Deeply embedded in societal values and expectations, these stigmas can manifest in various ways such as judgement, isolation, and shame. As a result, people with mental health disorders may choose to suppress their feelings or deny their condition, making them suffer silently instead of seeking timely intervention. In addition to limiting their access to treatment options, this issue also prevents them from learning about vital strategies and coping mechanisms focused on dealing with mental health conditions, such as effectively managing anxiety at work.  

Lack of Awareness

Many, due to cultural or educational gaps, remain unaware of the intricate dynamics of mental health. This lack of knowledge often stems from a combination of inadequate educational resources and widespread misinformation. As a result, mental health issues might be dismissively categorised as temporary "phases" or erroneously seen as issues individuals can simply "overcome" without support.

Cost of Services

For many, the costs associated with therapy and other mental health services are prohibitive. Without insurance or public healthcare provisions covering mental health, individuals might avoid seeking treatment. This lack of early intervention can exacerbate their conditions, leading to more severe and prolonged challenges.

Shortage of Care and Access

Another significant barrier is the scarcity of readily available resources. Individuals might confront issues like prolonged waiting periods, insufficient professionals in their locality, or a stark absence of reliable, empathetic confidants to guide them.

Accessibility in Rural and Regional Areas

For those residing in rural or regional settings, the challenge is even more pronounced. Limited transportation, fewer healthcare facilities, and a lack of specialised professionals, and the absence of telehealth mental health counselling services can create an environment where mental health issues remain unaddressed, amplifying feelings of isolation and helplessness.

It's crucial to note that individuals might experience multiple barriers concurrently, further diminishing their likelihood of seeking help. Overcoming these barriers requires a multi-faceted approach, addressing each hurdle to create a more inclusive, safe environment where mental health support is readily available, accessible, and affordable.

In Australia, Sureway Health and Wellbeing is a dedicated organisation assisting NDIS participants and those with mental health challenges access NDIS wellbeing support by offering essential services tailored to individual needs, such as our psychosocial recovery coaching support. Sureway aims to change lives and build stronger communities through sustainable employment training and comprehensive allied health support.

To learn more on how we can support you or your loved one, contact us today.