NPS MedicineWise recently released survey results about young Australians with mental health issues. Almost half were uncomfortable speaking to their doctor about it when first diagnosed, but this got easier over time. Around four in ten had used a mental health safety plan – research suggests this is something that can lower the risk of suicide by almost half.
The latest survey was carried out between 25-29 June 2022. 309 Australians diagnosed with a mental health condition between the ages of 16 and 24 took part.
Mental health and young people
Awareness of mental ill health in Australia is growing, particularly among the young, but not fast enough.
According to Dr Caroline West, GP and medical advisor at NPS MedicineWise, ‘More than half of all young people go through some form of mental ill health by the age of 25.
‘For three quarters of adults living with a mental health issue, it started before 25 years of age. This is why it is so important for young people to seek help early.
‘There are treatments that work. Fear of stigma and feeling alone in their struggles stop people from seeking help,’ she said.
To help deal with this problem, NPS MedicineWise has created a series of videos where young people share their stories. They talk about overcoming stigma, building relationships with health professionals and navigating the health system.
Stigma and stories
‘There are cultural aspects to having a mental health condition,’ said Jeanette Chan, a 23 year-old mental health advocate from Melbourne. ‘It was really challenging at first talking about mental health with my family. It wasn’t something that we talked about a lot.
‘For a long time I held it in and dealt with it on my own, she said.
‘I eventually spoke to my family about mental health. It wasn’t great at first. Over time, I persisted with the different conversations. It’s worked out for the best,’ said Ms Chan.
The NPS MedicineWise survey found people felt more comfortable over time speaking to their doctor about mental health, with a trusting patient-doctor relationship being very important.
When first diagnosed, almost half of those surveyed felt uncomfortable speaking about the topic. Only about three in ten of those people still feel uncomfortable now.
The survey also found 18% of people were not part of treatment decisions, while 44% felt as an equal with their doctor in working on their mental health.
Trust
Dr Caroline West said, ‘It is important you feel comfortable with your doctor. They are your partner working with you on your mental health. It is about you and what is right for you.
‘It can sometimes take time to feel comfortable. If you don’t connect with one doctor, it is important to seek out one who you can relate to and trust,’ she said.
The survey found that 44% of young people with a mental health condition use a mental health safety plan. 15% had never heard of a mental health safety plan.
Because suicidal thoughts are common for people feeling mental health distress, a mental health safety plan is an important part of mental health treatment.
A safety plan can drastically lower the risk of suicide.
Beyond Now
Dr West suggests, ‘You can use the Beyond Now app from Beyond Blue as a mental health safety plan. It is on your phone and it is always there when you need it.’
There are seven steps to the Beyond Now mental health safety plan:
- Recognising your warning signs.
- Making your surroundings safe.
- Reminders of reasons to live.
- Things that can make you feel strong.
- People and places to connect with.
- Family and friends you can talk to.
- Professional support.
You can find out more about Beyond Now and download the app here.
There is also support at Lifeline via the web or on 13 11 14.
