Mental illness describes a number of diagnosable disorders that can significantly interfere with a person’s cognitive, emotional or social abilities.
ABS data show that females aged 16–85 years have a higher rate of mental health disorders (22 per cent) than males (18 per cent). A higher rate of anxiety disorders is the main contributor to the higher overall rate for females, who are almost twice as likely as males to report post-traumatic stress disorder.
Males were more likely to have had a mental disorder at some stage in their lifetime than females (48 per cent compared to 43 per cent). This was due to a higher proportion that had a substance use disorder.
In 2007, 45 per cent of Australians aged 16–85 years reported that they would have met the criteria for a diagnosis of a mental disorder at some point in their life. One in five (3.2 million) Australians had experienced symptoms of mental illness in the previous 12 months.
Pharmacies can also provide advice on ways to maintain your mental health, and cope with stress. There is a series of mental health information cards available from pharmacies providing the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia’s Self Care health information program. These cards cover a number of topics such as Anxiety, Depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
There are also useful Fact Cards covering a range of related topics such as Relaxation Techniques and Sleeping Problems, all with helpful tips. Any questions regarding yourself, or a loved one, please consult your Doctor or Ask Piggotts!