New Data Shows More Than Three Million Aussies Have Been Prescribed Anti-Depressants

Australia was deemed the second-highest country for use of anti-depressants in 2015, with new data showing that these numbers have continued to rise. 

According to a report published on PsychWatch Australia, in the 2018 financial year, more than three million Australians were prescribed anti-depressants.

These were typically SSRIs - a type of anti-depressant used for depression or anxiety treatment.

Several reasons for the spike in antidepressants have been noted, including the fact that a large amount of prescriptions administered by GPs.

Lead critical advisor for Beyond Blue Dr Grant Blashki told the Hit Newsroom that its important to take anti-depressants in conjunction with a full care plan, including perhaps seeking psychological help, or even getting a second opinion from another GP.

"One million Australians experience depression every year, and people with severe depression will tell you that antidepressants can be a real lifesaver," he said.

"And that's what the research tells us. But for people with mild depression, anti-depressants are really no better than taking sugar tablets."

The research noted that there did not appear to be a correlation between this data and Australia's ranking on the 'happiness' scale, resulting in researchers suggesting that perhaps it is more a case of the mental healthcare system itself needing work.

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