Mental Health
The Ballarat Foundation supports programs that improve the mental wellbeing of community members
Mental Health in Ballarat
Ballarat is experiencing significant mental health challenges. Around 13% of the population lives with long term conditions such as depression and anxiety. This is significantly higher than the Victorian average of 9% and represents a 44% increase. In addition, the rate of intentional self harm, particularly among men, is higher in Ballarat than in Melbourne and the rest of the state. These statistics reflect a growing mental health crisis in our community and highlight the need for accessible, preventative and early intervention support services.
Who is most affected?
The highest rates of mental health conditions are found among people aged 25 to 44. This is a stage of life often shaped by financial pressures, work demands and family responsibilities which can all compound the risk of poor mental health. Beyond the numbers are families, workplaces and friendship groups who feel the ripple effects when someone is struggling. These challenges are often made worse by stigma, financial stress and difficulty accessing timely support.
Ballarat Vital Signs Report 2025
According to the Ballarat Vital Signs 2025 report, mental health remains an area of concern, with higher distress and suicide rates than the state average.
Around one in six residents experience depression or anxiety, though it’s encouraging that more people are seeking help. The data highlights the need for continued investment in prevention, early support and community-based wellbeing programs. Creating mentally healthy communities starts with open conversations, accessible services and reducing the stigma that still surrounds mental illness.
snapshot
Our Mental Health
In this video, Community Impact Manager, Nina FitzSimons, explores the growing mental health challenges across Ballarat with the Vital Signs Report indicating higher mental health distress than other areas.
Significant change stories
Mum's Thrive
How a wellbeing program is helping survivors of family violence heal and connect to themselves and others.......
Healing through play
How a simple day of play, creativity, and connection helped children recovering from family violence feel safer, more confident, and more able to express themselves in a supportive community environment.
How We’re Making a Difference
The Ballarat Foundation is committed to improving mental health outcomes by supporting local programs that not only respond to crisis but also address the underlying causes of mental illness. The Foundation places a particular focus on prevention, early intervention, and community-led approaches that build connection, resilience, and belonging. Our approach to mental health is to address the drivers of poor mental health, not just the symptoms. The community has identified adult mental health as a priority.
James Petrie Fund
By supporting preventative and recovery-focused initiatives, we aim to create a more connected, resilient and thriving community. The James Petrie Fund was created in 2023 to support projects which respond to mental health issues in the Ballarat region and support youth engagement.
Need support now?
If you or someone you know is struggling, please don’t hesitate to reach out for help.
Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 — available 24/7 for free, confidential support.
We work on Wadawurrung land
The Ballarat Foundation acknowledges the Wadawurrung people, the traditional owners of the lands and waterways in our region. We recognise their diversity, resilience, and the ongoing place that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people hold in our communities. We pay our respects to the Elders, both past and present, and commit to working together in the spirit of mutual understanding, respect and reconciliation.
The Ballarat Foundation is committed to fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive community where everyone is welcomed, respected and empowered to thrive.