The topic of mental health has entered the spotlight, becoming more discussed each and every year. Mental illnesses are a serious health issue that in some way or another will affect each of our lives.
A new report released by the Australian Institute for Health and Welfare (AIHW) confirms just how widespread mental illness is in Australia.
The report Australia’s Health 2020 shows that one in five Australians report having had a mental or behavioural condition in 2017-18.
“The mental health sector is an extremely important part of Australian society, and we want to hear about these unsung heroes, so their contribution to mental health can be publicly recognised in the Australian Mental Health Prize,” says Chair of the Australian Mental Health Prize Advisory Group, Ita Buttrose, AC OBE.
Scientia Professor at UNSW Medicine and Advisory Board member of the AIHW, Professor Henry Brodaty adds that, “We expect the impact of COVID-19 will see a further increase in these figures, so it is more important than ever to publicly acknowledge mental health and those that work in the sector through the Australian Mental Health Prize.”
Important recognition
Ms Buttrose continues to emphasise how the Australian Mental health Prize will not only highlight those who help out the community but those living with mental health conditions.
“We encourage clinicians, health professionals, community groups and individuals to nominate people whom they feel are making a real difference in the area of mental health research, advocacy or service delivery for the 2020 Australian Mental Health Prize.”
To enter, nominees simply need to provide 200 words outlining the work being undertaken and how it is making an impact. Nomination forms can be obtained from: australianmentalhealthprize.org.au. Nominations for the Australian Mental Health Prize close on 30 August.
