Falling through the cracks: the gap between evidence and policy in responding to depression in gay, lesbian and other homosexually active people in Australia.
OBJECTIVE
To examine the evidence for a national policy response to depression among gay, lesbian and other homosexually active people in Australia.


METHODS
A literature review using database searches on depression among non-heterosexual people then a web-based search of national policy investigating how mental health needs in this population are addressed in Australia.


RESULTS
The literature review found that non-heterosexual people experience depression at higher rates, but the literature on interventions was sparse. The policy analysis found no mention of depression or the broader mental health needs of non-heterosexual people in key national mental health policy documents. These documents outline a policy approach for population groups with a higher prevalence of mental health problems, and stigma and discrimination are relevant associated factors, but only the National Suicide Strategy considers non-heterosexual people an 'at-risk group'.


CONCLUSIONS
The results suggest that the evidence on higher rates of depression in non-heterosexual people is strong, but that this is not recognised in current national policy.


CONCLUSIONS
Defining non-heterosexual people as an 'at-risk' group is appropriate, as is prioritising access to mental health services that are socially and culturally appropriate. Addressing homophobia as an associated factor would require a strategic policy approach across a range of sectors.
Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, Latrobe University, 215 Franklin St., Melbourne, Victoria. m.carman@latrobe.edu.au
Marina
M
Carman
Julienne
J
Corboz
Gary W
GW
Dowsett
D001315:Australia / Q000453:epidemiology; D003863:Depression / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000628:therapy; D005260:Female; D006291:Health Policy; D006716:Homosexuality / Q000523:psychology*; D018452:Homosexuality, Female / Q000523:psychology; D018451:Homosexuality, Male / Q000523:psychology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D015995:Prevalence; D012307:Risk Factors