Half a million Australian drug users fighting mental illness

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December 5, 2007

The Mental Health Council of Australia says up to 500,000 Australians are facing the dual challenge of substance use and mental illness.

The council’s David Crosby also highlights a lack of support for drug users, including high-profile sports people.

Mr Crosby today spoke at a national conference in Melbourne and says 50 per cent of drug and alcohol users have underlying mental health problems.

He believes problems faced by people such as sportsmen Andrew Johns and Ben Cousins are a wake-up call for those who know drug abusers.

“I really feel for Andrew Johns and I feel for Ben Cousins and I feel for people that experience those problems and I wonder why the people around them didn’t do more to get them the help they need,” he said.

“I see it as a call to arms for other people to say well, how are your friends? How are your mates doing? And are we providing the supports that we need to them?” © 2007 Australian Broadcasting Corporation

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