S2 E5 | What Australians think about mental health

Consider this: a striking 44% of Australians have experienced a mental disorder at some time in their life. With mental health challenges spanning from anxiety to depression, millions fight these invisible battles daily. Alarmingly, the suicide rate among First Nations People is almost double that of non-indigenous individuals, a stark reminder of the urgent need for targeted support. Furthermore, the lack of data on mental health within migrant and refugee populations underscores the call for extensive research and culturally sensitive approaches.   Our society's pulse is intrinsically linked to our collective mental well-being - it shapes our social interactions, strengthens our communities, and constructs the bridges of understanding and cooperation that foster social cohesion.   With our host Anthea Hancocks and guest Tigist Kebede, we turn our attention to mental health, a topic that weaves itself into every corner of our society. As we unravel the intricate tapestry of mental well-being in Australia, we examine the prevalence of mental disorders, spotlight disparities in different communities, and discuss strategies to foster resilience and happiness.   In this episode we discuss:

• What is culturally responsive practice
• How someone's identity impacts how they experience the world
• How we should reframe ‘resilience’
• Understanding intersectionality and self - there is no single path to getting help

Voices of Australia is a Scanlon Foundation Research Institute podcast exploring all things interesting in the world of social cohesion. Voices of Australia is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Now available with video also, in addition to audio-only! We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, or suggestions for future episodes to [e-mail] You can also share your thoughts with us via LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.