Nearly two-thirds of Australians believe we are becoming more disconnected from each other, according to new research from Mental Health Australia.
The findings showed that people recognise the positives of being connected, but 30 per cent of those surveyed felt that they simply didn’t share the same close relationships that they did 10 years ago.
Mental Health Australia CEO Carolyn Nikoloski said the findings highlight a growing “connection gap” between the value people place on connection and belonging and how connected many feel in their daily lives.
“People understand the importance of connection and community, yet many feel like we’re drifting further apart,” she said.
“That’s concerning because connection is an important protective factor for our mental health and wellbeing.”
Survey results show that more than half of the people recognise the importance of social connection for their mental health, but nearly 20 per cent of them said they feel disconnected from others.
The data also suggests that many people still aren’t comfortable talking about their mental health challenges, particularly in the workplace.
Two-thirds of those surveyed said they would feel comfortable telling their friends they were struggling with their mental health, but this figure dropped to 29 per cent when the person they were confiding in was an employer.
“While we’ve made important progress in reducing stigma around mental health, these results show many people still don’t feel comfortable speaking openly at work about mental health challenges,” Ms Nikoloski said.
The data was released earlier this month, coinciding with the start of Mental Health Month which this year was launched under the theme Together We Thrive.
“Mental Health Month is an important opportunity to raise awareness of mental health, reduce stigma and encourage people to seek support when they need it,” Ms Nikoloski said.
“It’s also a chance to pause, check in with ourselves and consider the role we can play in helping people feel connected and supported.
“Together We Thrive is more than a theme. It’s a powerful reminder that strong connections are essential for good mental health, and that when people feel connected, included and supported, individuals, families and communities can thrive.”
World Mental Health Day was observed on Saturday with a particular focus on engaging people with lived experience, encouraged by the World Health Organisation’s 2026 theme – lived experiences heard: real voices, real change.
