An interview with Ian Hickie
Early intervention is critical
As head of the Brain and Mind Institute at Sydney University, Professor Ian Hickie knows what he’s saying when he urges health authorities to do more to capture mental illness where it usually begins – in the 15 to 25-year-old age group.
“It’s critical. The period of greatest risk, particularly from suicide, is often early in the course of an illness. Research indicates that prompt treatment can reduce that risk now.
“Early intervention can also head off associated social and physical problems – relationship breakdown, alcohol and drug abuse, homelessness and unemployment - which affect many other people.
“Seventy five per cent of mental health problems start in the 15-25 age group, but our health services don’t really connect with people in this age group.
“There’s no way an adolescent will make a positive decision on their own to go and seek mental health care. That decision will be transacted within peer, family, school and other groups, and their experiences of the health care system. So the young people really rely on others to have positive attitudes about their problems and to getting care.”
- Read more about Professor Hickie’s views by downloading the Wesley report: Keeping minds well: mental health is everybody’s business.
- You can also help us to catch mental illness early. Donate today.
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