Mental health services in brief 2016

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare has published an overview of the provision of health and welfare services to Australians with mental health needs. Mental Health Services in Brief 2016 examines the prevalence and impact of mental illness in Australia, overviews existing services, resources and supports and looks at key performance indicators.

It is estimated that almost half of Australians will experience a common mental disorder in their lifetime and that in 2010 64,000 people between 18 and 64 accessed treatment annually for a psychotic disorder. There were over 17 million mental health-related GP encounters in 2014-15, mainly for depression, anxiety and sleep disturbance.  There are many other statistics and facts succinctly provided in this 38 page document.