'Every me and every you': responding to the hidden challenge of mental illness in Australia.
OBJECTIVE
To show that mental illness affects everyone in society, describe some of the main obstacles to better outcomes, and build confidence that they can be overcome.


METHODS
A review and analysis of relevant evidence and experience combined with personal advocacy.


RESULTS
Mental illnesses are common and seriously under-treated, reform of the system of care has completely stalled, and insidious reinstitutionalization of the modernized system is occurring. A number of contributing factors and possible solutions are identified, including mental health literacy and advocacy campaigns, a focus on young people and early intervention, and functional reintegration of the treatment of mental and substance use disorders.


CONCLUSIONS
A new wave of reform and major financial investment in the treatment of mental and substance use disorders is overdue. This can be best achieved by combining the evidence-based health care (EBHC) paradigm with a direct appeal to the self-interest of members of the general community. A National Institute of Mental Health and Addiction should be a key element of such reform, which must be a continuing process with substantially increased federal and State funding.
McGorry
Patrick
P
D001290:Attitude; D001315:Australia / Q000453:epidemiology; D017281:Cost of Illness; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000628:therapy*; D008605:Mental Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration*; D015995:Prevalence; D012649:Self Concept