Mental health experts anticipate another rise in reports in census
With Australians asked to report long-term health challenges for just the second time in Tuesday's census, experts expect to see a rise in the number of mental health conditions.
Mental health experts anticipate another rise in reports for the 2026 census, following the 2021 census where mental health conditions were the most frequently reported long-term health diagnosis. The 2026 census, conducted on Tuesday, builds on the comparative data from previous censuses, which showed that around one in 11 Australians had a long-term mental health condition in 2021.
This data, collected amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, provides insights into community wellbeing and helps shape the distribution of mental health services. Biostatistician Tim Slade from the University of Sydney's Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use expects the latest census to reflect an increase in mental health reports, as recent research has shown persistent mental health challenges among young Australians aged 16 to 24.
The 2021 census took place during COVID-19 restrictions, but mental health concerns were already rising before the pandemic. Mental health service provider Beyond Blue CEO Georgie Harman notes a rise in demand for services due to financial pressures, increased anxiety and depression symptoms, and the need for early intervention to prevent issues from worsening.
Mental health issues affect both urban and regional Australians, and accurate census data is crucial for allocating resources effectively to support the entire community.
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