The Unspoken Link: How Corporate Influence and Economic Systems Fuel the Mental Health Crisis in Australia
Every 13 minutes, someone in the USA dies by suicide. This harrowing statistic reflects a global crisis that affects millions. In Australia, the story is equally troubling. Despite the multitude of experts, initiatives, and wellbeing departments, the rate of suicide continues to rise. Why is this happening?
Could it be that we are failing to address the deeper, interconnected issues that underpin mental health and suicide? The problem lies in our inability to connect the dots between various societal factors.
Take the Australian Football League (AFL) for example. While its wellbeing team is celebrated for its efforts, the reality is that the league is heavily sponsored by industries that contribute to mental and physical health problems—fast food, alcohol, betting, and gambling. These industries target young males, the demographic most at risk of suicide. It seems that the AFL’s wellbeing initiatives are mere band-aids over deep-rooted issues. In a world dominated by economics, money often triumphs over genuine wellbeing, creating a sick society, as noted by Gabor Maté.
Economic Pressures and Mental Health
Government actions are often influenced by the need for funding from companies that harm public wellbeing. This dependence hinders the government’s ability to make decisions that negatively affect these companies. For example, privatized education creates enormous debt for students, deterring many from pursuing further education. This financial burden traps individuals in unsatisfying jobs, poor relationships, substandard housing, and struggling communities—conditions that exacerbate feelings of defeat, uselessness, and worthlessness, all common among those who die by suicide.
In 2023, the Australian Bureau of Statistics reported that 3,318 Australians died by suicide, a rate of 12.9 per 100,000 people. The common factors among those who took their own lives included financial stress, unemployment, and a lack of access to education. Despite these clear connections, university chancellors continue to earn multi-million dollar salaries while students grapple with insurmountable debt.
The Role of Big Business and Government
Big technology companies also play a significant role in shaping government policies, often to the detriment of young people's mental health. These companies operate with minimal regulation, contributing to the mental health crisis by exploiting vulnerable users. Governments, meanwhile, implement laws purportedly to protect the public—such as speeding fines and parking tickets—but often fail to take meaningful action against harmful social media practices.
In 2022, the Australian Communications and Media Authority reported a 20% increase in mental health issues among teenagers due to social media use. Yet, no substantial legislation has been enacted to protect young people from these platforms. The government's reluctance to regulate big tech highlights a glaring inconsistency in its approach to public wellbeing.
A Call for Change
Addressing the suicide crisis requires a fundamental shift in our approach to mental health. This includes recognizing the interconnected nature of societal issues and implementing policies that address root causes. Taxing large multinational corporations and making education free could be significant steps towards reducing suicide rates. Such measures would help individuals feel valued and part of a community that genuinely cares about their wellbeing.
In conclusion, the rising suicide rates in Australia are a symptom of deeper systemic issues. It is essential to challenge the economic and corporate structures that perpetuate mental health problems. By prioritizing the welfare of individuals over profits, we can create a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Key Takeaways:
Interconnected Issues: Recognize the link between economic pressures, corporate influence, and mental health.
Government Action: Advocate for policies that prioritize public wellbeing over corporate profits.
Education: Support initiatives to make education accessible and affordable.
Community: Foster a sense of belonging and community through proactive measures.
By addressing these fundamental issues, we can make meaningful progress in the fight against suicide and build a healthier, more compassionate society.
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