Cost of living pressures have overtaken the pandemic as Australians’ greatest source of worry, according to a survey released on World Mental Health Day.

Mental health charity Beyond Blue surveyed 1500 people and found inflation, rising interest rates, cost of living pressures, along with the war in Ukraine and concerns about the future, were causing the greatest concern among respondents.

Compared to the same time last year, fewer people were seeking advice about the impact of the pandemic, and more were discussing family and relationship stress and anxiety.

Beyond Blue CEO Georgie Harman said people were still adjusting to the ramifications of recent years despite the shift in pandemic-related concerns.

“Survey respondents say a lack of social connection, isolation, negative self-worth are lingering feelings, and that things aren’t quite back to normal just yet,” Ms Harman said.

Almost half of those surveyed said they felt lost when it came to their mental health and wellbeing, while a similar share said they felt their problems didn’t warrant seeking support.

While the pandemic has highlighted gaps in mental health services across the country, Ms Harman encouraged the use of supplementary support services such as Beyond Blue’s online forums for those waiting for help.

“Seeking support at the first sign you’re not feeling quite yourself can make it easier to bounce back and maintain good mental health,” she said.

beyondblue 1300 22 4636

To find out more about Beyond Blue’s online forums, visit forums.beyondblue.org.au

Lifeline 13 11 14

Adrian Black and Mibenge Nsenduluka
(Australian Associated Press)