The Cost of Adverse LGBTIQ+ Mental Health

The poor mental health outcomes of LGBTIQ+ Victorians comes at an economic and financial cost estimated to be as high as $3 billion in research released today.

Commissioned by Thorne Harbour Health, the report findings from Deloitte show the rate of lifetime mental health for LGBTIQ+ Victorians is 73%, significantly higher than the 46% among the general population.

LGBTIQ+ Victorians are estimated to make up to 10% of the state’s population and their mental health outcomes are driven by a complex set of factors including systemic discrimination and marginalisation within society and the health system more broadly.

“When you look at the rates of anxiety, depression, and suicide, the message is clear - LGBTIQ mental health is in crisis,” said Thorne Harbour Health CEO Simon Ruth.

Luke Condon, Engagement Partner at Deloitte, explains, “This comprehensive study clearly shows the economic cost of adverse mental health outcomes in the LGBTIQ+ population and the findings will help us to better understand the prevalence and costs associated. Inclusion enables both participation and productivity and therefore contributes to all Australians. This is an important piece of work on an important issue.”

Robbie Robertson (National lead for Deloitte Australia’s LGBTI+ network and ally community, StandOUT) - “Inclusion continues to be a key priority at Deloitte, which is why StandOUT supported this important piece of work. Through StandOUT, our goal is to create an inclusive work environment where our LGBTI+ people can be their authentic selves and feel empowered, regardless of how they identify. This research is invaluable to that goal.”

The full report The Cost of Adverse Mental Health Outcomes in the LGBTIQ+ Victorian Adult Population as well as a summary report are available below.