|
 Download Factsheet
How many people experience mental illness?
20% of adults are affected by some form of mental disorder every year.
Anxiety disorders and depression are the most common mental illnesses.
The remainder are affected by psychotic conditions such as
schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, by eating disorders and other diagnoses.
How many people are seriously affected by mental illness?
3% of adults are affected by a severe mental disorder every year. The 'severe mental disorders' include schizophrenia , bipolar disorder and other forms of psychosis, some forms of depression , and anxiety disorders such as panic disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder .
Schizophrenia is a persistent form of mental illness that affects
approximately 1% of Australians at some stage in their lives. Bipolar
disorder affects up to 2% of Australians at some time in their lives.
Depression affects around 20%, and anxiety disorders around 10% at some
time in life.
Does mental illness run in families?
Most people with a mental illness do not have family members with the
illness. For some mental disorders there does not seem to be a link at
all. For others, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, a
predisposition to the illness may be inherited – but even then, it is
only one of several factors. The causes are not fully understood. It is
likely that such mental disorders involve a biochemical imbalance and
can be triggered by such things as stressful life events, drug abuse,
hormonal changes or physical illness.
Is mental illness life-threatening?
Mental illness itself is not life-threatening. However, up to 12% of
those seriously affected eventually kill themselves (compared to an
average of 1% for the whole population). Effective, ongoing treatment
is essential to minimise the risk of suicide.
What are the chances of recovering from mental illness?
Most people with mental illness recover well and are able to lead
fulfilling lives in the community - when they receive appropriate
ongoing treatment
and support. However, only about half of those affected actually
receive treatment. The majority of people who develop anxiety disorders
improve over time with appropriate treatment and support. About 80% of
people diagnosed with bipolar disorder also improve with ongoing
treatment and support. The long-term outcome for schizophrenia can be
better than many assume, especially where access to good treatment is
consistent. About 20% of those diagnosed have an episode or two, then
never experience symptoms again. About 60% improve over time and, with
support, can live independently. For about 20%, symptoms are more
persistent, treatments are less effective, and greater support services
are needed.
How do I find out more?
It is important to
ask your doctor about any concerns you have. SANE Australia also
produces a range of easy-to-read publications and multimedia resources
on mental illness. For more information about this topic see:
- SANE Guide for Consumers
Provides
practical suggestions on ways you can look after yourself, explains
what words like ‘diagnosis’ and ‘treatment’ actually mean and describes
how treatment and medication can help you.
- The SANE Guide for Families
Explains
how to better handle common issues associated with being a carer such
as developing a positive attitude, looking after yourself and getting
the help you are entitled to.
- The SANE Guide to Medication and other Treatments
Explains
how all the different aspects of treatment work, by looking at clinical
care, medication, support in the community and helping yourself.
To order or visit the SANE Bookshop at www.sane.org or call 1800 18 SANE (7263)
SANE Australia . . . Facts and figures about mental illness
©SANE Factsheet 13
This Factsheet may be freely downloaded, copied and distributed on
condition no change is made to the contents. SANE Australia is not
responsible for any actions taken as a result of information or
opinions contained in the Factsheet. SANE Australia is a business name
of Schizophrenia Australia Foundation.
[Version English, 2005]
|
