Work

Mental health and substance use conditions among emerging adults in Australia 2020–2022: Prevalence, severity and psychosocial correlates within geographic regions

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: This study presents estimates of the prevalence, severity and correlates of mental health conditions in Australian emerging adults within geographic regions. METHODS: (4th ed.; DSM-IV) mental and substance use disorders (mental health conditions) are presented for Modified Monash Model categories (geographic region). Multivariable logistic regression models explored correlates of any mental health condition in the full sample, metro subgroup and regional, rural and remote subgroup. RESULTS: Over one-third of emerging adults met criteria for a mental health condition. Anxiety disorders were most prevalent (29.2%), then mood disorders (13.7%) and substance use disorders (7.8%). Prevalence was high across metro areas (36.1%); regional centres (35.4%); large rural towns (38.4%) and medium rural towns, small rural towns and remote communities (38.1%). Lifetime exposure to suicide or sexual assault was associated with mental health condition in all regions. In metro but not regional, rural and remote areas, female sex, neighbourhood disadvantage, household financial hardship, no engagement with education/employment, lifetime physical domestic or family violence, less social support and bodily pain were associated with mental health condition. CONCLUSION: Mental health conditions are prevalent among Australian emerging adults in metro, regional, rural and remote regions. Equitable solutions bringing together the full continuum of care in mental health, suicide prevention, sexual violence and bodily pain are needed to reduce their significant impact.

Source: Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry

DOI: 10.1177/00048674251385365

Authors: Julia Macauley, Marlee Bower, Maree Teesson, Emma Webster, Cath Chapman

Institution: The University of Sydney

Language: English

Topic: Mental Health Treatment and Access

Subfield: Social Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,400