You are currently:
  • Home
  • Who does it affect?

Who does it affect

Anxiety, depression and suicide can affect any of us at any time. But at different points in our lives we can be at greater risk – when we're going through big changes such as becoming an adult, retiring, starting a family, or losing someone we love, for example.

Experiencing discrimination because of our sexuality, gender identity, ethnicity or religion can also cause psychological distress and make us much more vulnerable to depression and anxiety.

That’s why beyondblue provides information and resources to meet your specific needs, based on what you’re experiencing and your circumstances.

Find out more


iStock_000013821303XLarge_200x250_circle

Young people

One in four young people experiences a mental health condition and suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians aged 15 to 24.

GettyImages_154376052_200x250_circle

Men

Almost eight people die by suicide each day in Australia. Six of these are men. In many cases mental health conditions are a contributing factor.

84008631_200x250_circle

Women

Women experience some mental health conditions (including depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress) at higher rates than men.

iStock_000010848837Large_200x250_circle

Older people

Depression is one of the most disabling mental conditions of later life, and research suggests that those who experience a chronic medical condition are twice as likely to develop major depression.

119097338_250x200)_circle

Pregnancy/parenthood

It's common for both parents to experience a range of emotions during pregnancy, women may experience anxiety or depression and it can be a stressful time for dads too.


160082875_200x250_circle

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

Compared to other Australians, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experience higher rates of depression, social isolation and chronic health problems.


iStock_000000627305Large_200x250_circle

LGBTI people

Lesbian, gay, bi, trans, intersex (LGBTI), bodily, gender and sexuality diverse people are much more likely to experience depression and anxiety than the broader population.

iStock_000015124717Large_200x250_circle

Multicultural people

Factors that increase the risk of depression and anxiety for people from different backgrounds may include the stress of adapting to a new culture, racism and discrimination.

160082453_200x250_circle

The Invisible Discriminator

Research shows that when Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experience racism it impacts their mental health.