SANE is dedicated to improving the lives of Australians affected by complex mental health issues. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, a significant portion of Australians aged 16-85 will experience a mental disorder at some time in their life, estimated to be around 42.9% of the population (or about 2 in every 5 people). SANE specifically focuses on those living with complex mental health conditions, providing crucial support where it's needed most.
What Does SANE Australia Do? And What is Considered "Complex Mental Health"?
SANE Australia defines "complex mental health issues" as those that are impactful, severe, enduring, or episodic. This goes beyond common mental health challenges like mild depression or anxiety, focusing on conditions that significantly impact an individual's life and often require more intensive, specialised, and ongoing support.
This can involve:
High levels of psychological distress.
A history of traumatic events or complex trauma.
Symptoms and experiences that are not well understood.
SANE's support extends to individuals dealing with diagnoses such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder (BPD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), severe depression and anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and dissociative disorders. They also provide support to individuals with co-occurring conditions like intellectual disability, autism, or acquired brain injury who require mental health assistance.
SANE provides free digital and telehealth support services for adults (18+) living with these complex mental health needs, and their families, friends, and carers. Their approach is comprehensive, offering a range of programs designed to empower individuals and foster recovery, Including:
Counselling and Peer Support: Offering one-on-one guidance and support from qualified counsellors and individuals with lived experience.
Guided Recovery Program: A structured program (eg: a 15-week program) that provides individual guidance, counselling, and access to online groups to help people navigate their mental health recovery.
24/7 Community Forums: A professionally moderated online space where individuals can connect, share experiences, seek advice, and find support from a community that understands. These forums are anonymous and accessible anytime.
Online Groups and Events: Facilitating virtual gatherings and webinars with a focus on mental health recovery, often featuring lived experience advocates and subject matter experts.
Information and Resources: Providing a wealth of trustworthy information, factsheets, and guides on various complex mental health issues, treatments, and coping strategies.
StigmaWatch: This long-running program actively monitors and responds to inaccurate or stigmatising portrayals of mental illness and suicide in the media, advocating for responsible reporting.
SANE'S Impact
By providing accessible and free services, the team are helping to bridge critical gaps in the mental health system, directly addressing the significant average wait times. A University of Melbourne study (Feb 2025 data, based on 2022 figures) found that Australians waited an average of 77 days for their first psychiatry appointment after a GP referral, leaving many vulnerable people without care when they need it most.
SANE empowers individuals to manage their mental health, work towards recovery goals, and reduce the isolation often associated with complex mental health issues. Their advocacy work through StigmaWatch also plays a vital role in shifting public perception and fostering a more understanding and inclusive society. At 101 Collins Street, we are proud to contribute to this impact through various activations and events held throughout the year, with proceeds directed to SANE Australia.
How You Can Support SANE Australia
If you're inspired by the invaluable work SANE Australia is doing and wish to contribute, there are several ways to offer support:
Donate: Make a one-off or recurring donation online via SANE's website.
Fundraise: Get involved by organising your own fundraising event or joining Team SANE for a community challenge.
Workplace Giving: Explore options for donating through your pre-tax pay if your workplace offers a giving program.
Spread Awareness: Share information about SANE Australia with your networks to help more people discover their services and mission.
By supporting SANE Australia, you're directly contributing to a brighter future for those living with complex mental health issues, fostering recovery, and helping to build a more compassionate society.
