Barriers that stop us having mental health conversations

Written By Sherisse Cohen

Despite the increased awareness of mental health many employees are uncomfortable having mental health conversations? Here are some reasons why:

  • 40% of people are hesitant to ask about mental health due to fears of being judged or appearing intrusive. ( R U OK?, 2022)

  • 45% of individuals cite busy schedules as a reason for not engaging in conversations about mental health. ( Australian Psychological Society, 2021)

  • 30% of people do not feel equipped to support others due to their own mental health struggles. ( Beyond Blue, 2022)

  • 50% of workplaces do not have formal mental health support systems or protocols, leading to reluctance in initiating conversations. ( Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, 2023)

  • 29% of people from culturally diverse backgrounds feel that cultural norms inhibit discussions about mental health. (Multicultural Mental Health Australia, 2021)

Despite the amazing progress we have made in addressing mental health over the past decade, these statistics underscore the need for education, training, and support to address these barriers and encourage more open and supportive conversations about mental health.

Sherisse Cohen
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