A doctor is warning that the younger population is headed towards a mental health crisis, as recent data from a leading telehealth service reveals Australians aged 18-35-years-old are overrepresented in prescriptions for depression and anxiety, with numbers continuing to grow.
Dr Thompson says new data raises serious concerns for young Aussies, pointing to a dire need for an awareness and expansion of services to address mental health issues.
Analysing patient data, InstantScripts has discovered that from January 2022 to the end of May, 18 to 35-year-olds were responsible for 59 percent of depression and anxiety prescriptions. Dr Thompson estimates that by the end of 2022, this number will increase past 2021 levels, which saw 58 percent of 18 to 35-year-olds representing mental health consultations last year, and 49 per cent in 2020.
“The silver lining in our data is that while it is devastating that more young Australians are experiencing mental health symptoms, it shows that more are reaching out to services such as ours for advice and help,” explains Dr Thompson.
Dr Thompson’s top four ways for young Australians to address mental health issues.
1. Be aware of the symptoms that can point to a deeper issue. While ongoing feelings of sadness and stress are clear symptoms of anxiety and depression, there are a variety of more obscure indicators that may point to a mental health condition. Poor mental health doesn’t always present as symptoms in the mind. Unexplained ongoing symptoms of stomach pain, back pain, headaches, or other aches and pains can sometimes point to a mental health issue.
2. Consider the support services available. Charities such as Lifeline (13 11 14) and Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) provide free and valuable services to Australians in need of immediate support. For ongoing treatment with a doctor or specialist, such as a psychologist Australians should speak with their GP or seek a telehealth service.
3. Tap into your support network. Many mental health issues such as anxiety and depression can cause people to feel isolated and withdrawn, but it is incredibly important to lean on family and friends for support.
4. Understand the strategies to help cope with and reduce anxiety and stress. Regular exercise, limiting or avoiding alcohol, and meditation and gratitude can reduce symptoms and severity of mental health conditions.
