A draft report on mental health from the Productivity Commission has revealed that mental ill-health and suicide are costing the Australian economy up to $180 billion a year.
The commission is taking public submissions on the report in an effort to address a perception that mental health can be treated as an add-on to the physical health system.
Chair of the Productivity Commission, Michael Brennan said the report emphasised the need for better support for young people.
He said 75 per cent of those who developed mental illness first experienced symptoms before they turned 25, and mental ill-health in critical schooling and employment years had long lasting effects for not only job prospects but many aspects of life.
“Getting help early is the key to prevention and better outcomes,” Mr Brennan said.
“Over their lifetime, one in two Australians will be affected by mental ill-health including anxiety and depression and up to a million people don’t get the help they need.”
He said the report included a comprehensive set of reforms to reorient the mental health system to close service gaps, better target services to meet needs and focus on early intervention and prevention.
“While full-scale change will take a long time, there are many changes that Governments can start now. For example, follow-up after attempted suicide is proven to save lives and could be started immediately,” Mr Brennan said.
“The commission recommends better support for students and teachers including appointing wellbeing leaders in all schools.”
He said other recommendations included more community-based services and innovative solutions such as better use of technology.
A 112-page overview of the draft report can be accessed at this PS News link.
