Mental Illness - Who Is At Risk?

Coud your lifestyle affect your chances of developing anxiety, depression or substance abuse? Larraine Sathicq discovers what you need to know.

Mental illness affects one in five Australians in any given year, with the most common illnesses being depression, anxiety and substance use disorder.

Interestingly, everyday habits can often trigger these conditions. And sometimes there can be subtle warning signs that you may be at risk of developing a mental illness. By making healthy lifestyle choices, and being aware of what to look out for, you can help protect your mental health.

Dr Margo Orum, psychologist at Life Resolutions in Sydney, helps people with a range of mental illnesses. Here, Dr Orum helps five women identify their risk factors and explains how they can protect their mental health.

The health scare

“I’ve always been a bit of a worrier but last year I had a breast cancer scare and since then I seem to be more anxious. My job is very stressful and although I love my work, I have taken on extra responsibilities that take up a lot of my time. I’m putting in more hours and I stay up late most nights planning my schedule and answering emails. I do try to be optimistic about the future and I have a strong support network of family and friends.” – Tracey, age 42

WHAT THE EXPERT SAYS