Better Health Channel
betterhealth.vic.gov.au
betterhealth.vic.gov.au

It’s Time to Talk about Mental Health

Victorians have faced some tough times lately – from droughts to bushfires to a global pandemic. It doesn’t matter who you are or what you’ve been through – everyone needs help from time to time.

Almost half of all Victorians will experience mental illness in their lifetime, but most people still feel too uncomfortable and uncertain to talk about it.

The Victorians featured in It’s Time to Talk about Mental Health have shared their stories to illustrate how we can all experience different mental health challenges.

If you or someone you know is struggling – don’t wait. It’s always the right time to talk about mental health.

You can call LifelineExternal Link on 13 11 14 or beyondblueExternal Link on 1300 224 636. In an emergency, call 000.

Fast facts about mental health

  • 1.3 million Victorians will this year experience mental illness.
  • Over a lifetime, one in two Victorians will experience mental illness.
  • Half of those who experience mental health issues won’t get help.
  • At least $11 billion is lost in productivity every year due to mental illness.
  • More than 76,000 Victorians are registered clients at mental health services.
  • Mental health services gave support more than 2.4 million times last year.
  • In 2018, only 1.1 per cent of the Victorian population accessed specialist mental health treatment, despite around 3 per cent needing it.
  • It is estimated that 65,000 people attempt suicide in Australia each year*
  • Suicide is now the leading cause of death for people between the ages of 15 and 44 in Australia.
  • You can call LifelineExternal Link on 13 11 14 or beyondblueExternal Link on 1300 224 636. In an emergency, call 000.

*Beyondblue

Where to get help

Telephone and online support for mental health issues

In urgent mental health and crisis situations, dial ‘000’

Mental health helplines are a great resource if you are struggling with mental health issues. Speak to someone who will listen and can give you appropriate advice and tell you the steps to take to get help.

Find someone to talk to by calling one of the following helplines:

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Reviewed on: 16-06-2023