More than 10 percent of Australians are turning to artificial intelligence for mental health advice, as loneliness and social isolation rates rise.
A new report, released by Australians for Mental Health, has revealed a clear majority of Australians believed the nation was facing a mental health crisis and wanted more from governments, communities and services.
Australians for Mental Health Executive Director Chris Gambian said the report also found most Australians recognised that mental health was a social and economic issue that affected everyone, not just a private medical matter.
“This study shows how important mental health is to people across the country and how ready they are for governments to do more,” Mr Gambian said.
He said loneliness shone through as a major issue for Australians, with 37 percent saying they often felt lonely and isolated.
“Nine per cent of Australians said they had no one they could trust to talk to, and a further 18 per cent said they didn’t discuss personal matters with people around them.”
Mr Gambian said study also found that artificial intelligence was being used by Australians for mental health support, with one in 10 (11 percent) turning to generative AI for advice about their mental health.
“However, 72 percent are worried about people turning to AI as a therapist and value human support.”
Key findings:
- 59 percent say Australia is facing a mental health crisis that needs urgent action.
- 76 percent believe we can fix the crisis with the right approach, investment and leadership.
- 58 percent say we should work together so every person has what they need to live well, versus 42 percent who say it is up to each person to manage their own wellbeing.
- 88 percent agree mental health is just as important as physical health.
- Cost of living pressure is seen as the primary factor affecting mental health (73 percent), followed by rising loneliness and social isolation (45 percent) and limited access to affordable housing (39 percent).
- If governments prioritise mental health, people expect the main benefits to be taking pressure off hospitals and the health system (51 percent) and more Australians being able to live full, meaningful lives (55 percent).
- 76 percent support requiring governments to consider mental health impacts when designing new policies and laws.
