Connection key to better mental health, Beyond Blue says

BEYOND Blue is highlighting the importance of strong communities and genuine human connection in supporting mental health, as growing numbers of Australians report feeling lonely and disconnected.

New findings from the organisation’s mental health and wellbeing survey, conducted last year, have revealed a decline in people’s sense of community, a trend linked to higher rates of loneliness, anxiety and depression.

Only one in three respondents (33 per cent) rated their sense of belonging to a community as “excellent” or “very good”, down from 37 per cent in 2022. Meanwhile, the percentage rating their sense of community as “poor” or “fair” has risen to 30 per cent, up from 28 per cent.

The data also found young Australians are particularly affected by feelings of isolation, with almost half of those aged between 18 and 24 identifying loneliness or a lack of connection as a key stressor.

While almost 50 per cent of respondents reported experiencing financial pressure, those facing loneliness were more likely to be experiencing distress, depression and suicidal thoughts than those dealing with money stress.

Beyond Blue chief executive Georgie Harman said that while communication and help-seeking around mental health has improved, the importance of community remains constant.

“Mental health is nurtured through community. While clinical interventions play an essential role, most mental health support doesn’t take place in hospitals or clinics, it actually happens in our homes, workplaces, schools, social groups and in our everyday community connections.

“The power of community lies in its ability to accept, protect and heal. It’s in our communities that we share experiences and make contributions that give us a sense of purpose and meaning in life.”

She said it is also in our communities that we establish our identities, experience belonging and develop the social networks that help us navigate hard times.

“It’s time we respect and acknowledge the role of community alongside professionals like psychologists and psychiatrists,” Ms Harman said.

“The increase in people turning to friends, family, teachers, managers and neighbours for support shows the importance of equipping everyday Australians with the tools to help others.

“Given more people are now turning to someone they know for help, it’s vital that we provide resources to those supporters. Taking care of mental health is something we do together.”

In the wake of World Mental Health Day (October 10), Beyond Blue is urging the community to take meaningful steps to strengthen social ties and foster a culture of connection.

“We invite everyone to take one small step to connect — whether it’s checking in on a friend, joining a local group, or simply saying hello to a neighbour,” Ms Harman said.

“Social support brings us comfort as individuals, and these bonds are the making of resilient communities. Relationships can hurt us, but they can also heal us. In many ways, they lay the foundation for our mental health.

“In a time of rising loneliness, economic pressure and social fragmentation, it’s important we all continue to play a role in supporting mental health, simply by showing up for each other.”

If you or someone you know needs mental health support, head to beyondblue.org.au or phone 1300 224 636. You can also head to lifeline.org.au or phone 13 11 14. Help for young people is available at kidshelpline.com.au or by phoning 1800 551 800.