Mental health
By 2020 depression alone will constitute one of the largest health problems worldwide (Burden of Disease Research Summary, VicHealth, 2005).
Researchers at Deakin have successfully procured
grants from the Victorian Centre of Excellence in Depression and Related
Disorders (VCoE )- beyondblue: the National Depression Initiative,
over the last two rounds. These projects span across a range of issues
and populations. However they are linked in their contribution to much
needed responses to increase information literacy around depression,
and better understanding of the experiences of people suffering depression
and how best to assist them. The VCoE, brings together capacity, expertise
and skill to enable the development and delivery of high quality, best
practice responses to depression and related disorders to the Victorian
community. 
Approximately 1.8 million people, (9.6% of Australian population) report having a long-term mental or behavioral problem. (2001 National Health Survey).
Those who live in the most socio-economically disadvantaged areas (within the lowest SIEFA quintile) experience higher prevalence of mental or behavioural problems (12.3%) compared with people who live in the least socio-economically disadvantaged areas (those in the highest SEIFA quintile - 8%). (2001 ABS National Health Survey 4824.0.55.001)
Our research focuses on understanding the social
factors and social impact of mental health problems for vulnerable
populations,
developing
and evaluating models of service delivery, and the development
of educational and prevention programs that target vulnerable
and at
risk groups. It investigates mental health "literacy" and
pathways of care for socially marginalised people. Much of the work
is focused on mental health promotion as an evidence-based resource
for intersectoral action. For example a project lead by Assoc Prof
Helen Keleher conducted in 2004 was designed to fill gaps in knowledge
and resources in relation to shared care for depression and related
disorders which have been identified as priorities by the member
agencies of the CEPCP in the Eastern Metropolitan Region.
