Mental illness and psychosocial disability: what everyone should know

What is the difference between mental illness and psychosocial disability?

Mental illness, or a mental health condition, is a diagnosable health condition such as depression, an anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. Many people experience a mental health condition at some point in their lives.

Psychosocial disability is not a diagnosis. It describes the impact a mental health condition can have on someone's ability to take part in daily life, combined with the barriers they meet in their environment. Not everyone with a mental illness has a psychosocial disability, and the impact can change over time.

Why does stigma matter?

Stigma is one of the biggest barriers people face. It can stop someone from seeking help, cost them work or housing, and make them feel ashamed of something that is not their fault.

Stigma often comes from myths: that people with mental illness are dangerous, weak or unable to recover. In reality, people living with mental illness are far more likely to be harmed by others than to harm anyone, and recovery is common.

What does recovery-oriented support look like?

Recovery does not always mean the absence of symptoms. It means living a meaningful life on your own terms, with hope, choice and connection. Recovery-oriented support follows the person's own goals rather than a fixed idea of what they should achieve.

• Hope: believing that a good life is possible
• Choice and control: the person leads decisions about their own support
• Connection: relationships, community and belonging
• Strengths: building on what the person can already do
• Flexibility: support that adapts as needs rise and fall

How can I support someone I care about?

You do not need to be an expert to help. Listen without judgement, ask how they are and what would help, and take what they say seriously. Encourage professional support, and offer practical help such as a lift to an appointment.

Look after yourself too. Supporting someone can be demanding, and carers also benefit from support. If you are worried that someone is at immediate risk, call 000.

How does the NDIS support psychosocial disability?

People whose mental health condition causes a substantial and likely permanent impact on their daily life may be eligible for the NDIS. The NDIS recognises that the impact of psychosocial disability can be episodic, meaning it can come and go.

NDIS funding may include psychosocial recovery coaching, support to build daily living skills, and help to take part in work and the community. Treatment for a mental health condition itself is generally provided through the health system, such as a GP, psychologist or psychiatrist.

Frequently asked questions