The Australian National Mental Health Survey, conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, aimed to determine the prevalence of mental disorders, associated comorbidity, disability, and service utilization. The survey included 10,641 adults with a response rate of 78%. Key findings include: - **Prevalence**: One in six adults (18.6%) met criteria for any anxiety, affective, or substance use disorder in the past year, with a higher prevalence in the past month (13.9%). - **Comorbidity**: Comorbid disorders were common, with 21% of respondents meeting criteria for at least one disorder in the past year. People with multiple disorders were more likely to have a current disorder, consult for mental health issues, and be moderately or severely disabled. - **Disability**: Affective and anxiety disorders were the most disabling, while personality and substance use disorders were less disabling. - **Service Utilization**: Only 35% of people with a mental disorder in the past year consulted a doctor, and most consultations were with general practitioners. Half of those with multiple comorbidities or moderate to severe disability did not seek help, often due to a perceived lack of need. - **Health Service Delivery**: Despite universal health insurance, there are significant gaps in service delivery, particularly for those with multiple or disabling disorders. The study highlights the need for better patient education and improved clinical competence to address these issues. The survey underscores the importance of addressing the high rate of unmet need and improving access to effective treatments for mental disorders in Australia.The Australian National Mental Health Survey, conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, aimed to determine the prevalence of mental disorders, associated comorbidity, disability, and service utilization. The survey included 10,641 adults with a response rate of 78%. Key findings include: - **Prevalence**: One in six adults (18.6%) met criteria for any anxiety, affective, or substance use disorder in the past year, with a higher prevalence in the past month (13.9%). - **Comorbidity**: Comorbid disorders were common, with 21% of respondents meeting criteria for at least one disorder in the past year. People with multiple disorders were more likely to have a current disorder, consult for mental health issues, and be moderately or severely disabled. - **Disability**: Affective and anxiety disorders were the most disabling, while personality and substance use disorders were less disabling. - **Service Utilization**: Only 35% of people with a mental disorder in the past year consulted a doctor, and most consultations were with general practitioners. Half of those with multiple comorbidities or moderate to severe disability did not seek help, often due to a perceived lack of need. - **Health Service Delivery**: Despite universal health insurance, there are significant gaps in service delivery, particularly for those with multiple or disabling disorders. The study highlights the need for better patient education and improved clinical competence to address these issues. The survey underscores the importance of addressing the high rate of unmet need and improving access to effective treatments for mental disorders in Australia.