Increasing demand and persistent gaps in perceived need for mental health care: National findings from 2007 to 2021.

ABSTRACT:

Aims

To examine self-perceived need for mental health care in the Australian adult population between 2007 and 2021.

Methods

The Perceived Need for Care Questionnaire in the 2007 and 2021 National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing captures types of help needed in five mental health care categories: medication, information, counselling, social interventions and skills training. Needs are rated as unmet, partially met, or fully met. Twelve-month affective, anxiety and substance use disorders are assessed using WHO's Composite International Diagnostic Interview.

Results

Demand for mental health care (composite of need categories) among adult Australians increased from 14% (2007) to 20% (2021). It also increased in those with common disorders (43.3-58.9%) and without (

SUBMITTER: Tian Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12831812 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature