Improving the public's understanding and response to mental disorders

Abstract

Mental disorders are so common that members of the public have a high probability of either developing one or having close contact with someone who does. Therefore, the public need some degree of knowledge about the recognition, management and prevention of these disorders. Community surveys in Australia show that many people are unable to recognise mental disorders and that they hold beliefs about treatment that are different from those of professionals. This lack of knowledge may affect whether appropriate help is sought, whether it is adhered to, and how people respond to others with mental disorders. However, there is evidence that public knowledge in Australia has improved in recent yea..