Cost of living crisis puts mental health treatment out of reach

New research reveals an increased number of Australians are leaving mental health support until breaking point.

Data shows one in five young Aussies delay reaching out for help with mental health and wellbeing, whilst people with just 27 percent of people experiencing substance abuse disorders will seek seek treatment in their lifetime.

According to the 2023 Report to the Nation the country’s intensifying cost of living crisis is also having a direct impact on the wellbeing of Australian’s.

To find out more about these impacts and the effects of delayed support, The Wire’s Ryan Kirley spoke to Michelle Olaithe, Clinical Director at HealthBright.

Image: Image – Pexels, Nappy

Produced By: Ryan Kirley

Featured In Story: Michelle Olaithe – Clinical Director at HealthBright

First aired on The Wire, Thursday 19 June 2025