Navigating Mental Health in Canberra: A Local Perspective on Wellbeing.
Living in Canberra offers a unique blend of opportunity and lifestyle. With its clean air, abundant green spaces, and reputation as a “bush capital,” Canberra often ranks highly in national quality of life indexes. But behind the well-planned suburbs and thriving cultural scene, mental health challenges still affect many in the community - and not always in ways that are easy to see. In recent years, the conversation around mental health has become louder and clearer across Australia, and Canberra is no exception. While this is a positive step, it's essential to continue raising awareness, improving access to support, and creating safe spaces for people to open up and seek help.
This blog aims to explore mental health in Canberra from both a local and human perspective - highlighting what contributes to wellbeing, what gets in the way, and how residents can take proactive steps to support themselves and others.
The Canberra Context: More Than Just a Political Capital
Canberra is known as the seat of federal government, but its population is diverse and growing. Students, professionals, young families, public servants, creatives, and retirees all call this city home. Its relatively small size can feel comforting to some but isolating to others.
Despite high education and employment rates, mental health issues in the ACT are on the rise. According to data from the ACT Government, nearly one in five adults report experiencing high or very high levels of psychological distress. Rates of anxiety and depression remain among the most common mental health concerns, and many young people report significant emotional challenges.
Unique Stressors in the ACT
Several unique factors contribute to mental health challenges in Canberra:
High-pressure environments: With a large portion of the workforce employed in government or academic roles, the culture of perfectionism and performance can lead to stress and burnout.
Isolation and transience: Many people relocate to Canberra for work or study, often away from their support networks. Transient populations can result in a sense of disconnection.
Seasonal effects: Canberra experiences cold, dark winters that can negatively affect mood and energy. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a common concern.
Cost of living: While not as extreme as Sydney or Melbourne, Canberra's rising housing and living costs place financial pressure on many households, especially students and young families.
Recognising When You Need Support
Mental health doesn’t always look like crisis. It can appear as a loss of motivation, irritability, fatigue, or feeling overwhelmed by everyday tasks. If you notice any of the following for more than a couple of weeks, it could be time to talk to someone:
Persistent low mood or sadness
Withdrawal from friends and activities
Trouble concentrating or making decisions
Changes in sleep or appetite
Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
Anxiety or panic attacks
It's okay to not be okay - and it's even more okay to reach out for help.
Taking Proactive Steps Toward Mental Wellbeing
Improving and maintaining mental health is an ongoing journey. In Canberra, there are a range of practical steps and local resources that can support your mental wellbeing:
Get Outside and Move
Canberra’s landscape is one of its greatest assets. Getting outdoors - even for a short walk around Lake Burley Griffin or a hike up Mount Ainslie - can improve mood, reduce anxiety, and offer a natural circuit breaker during stressful times.
Create a Supportive Routine
Daily routines offer structure and stability. Try to prioritise regular sleep, balanced meals, hydration, and moments of joy. Even small rituals like a morning coffee in the sun or journaling before bed can create positive momentum.
Stay Connected
Isolation is a significant risk factor for mental health issues. Making time for family, friends, or social groups - even virtually - can make a big difference. Look into local community centres, book clubs, or hobby groups to build connections.
Limit Alcohol and Screen Time
Canberra’s pub and bar scene is lively, especially on the weekends. While social drinking may feel like a release, excessive alcohol can negatively impact mental health and sleep quality. Similarly, excessive time on social media or devices can affect mood and self-esteem. Mindful consumption is key.
Talk to a Counsellor or Therapist
Speaking to a trained professional can help you work through thoughts and emotions in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. Therapy isn’t just for crises - it’s for anyone seeking greater self-understanding, help navigating stress, or support in healing from past experiences.
One option is Eryn Long, Counsellor, who offers client-centred and compassionate support for individuals facing challenges such as anxiety, stress and burnout, workplace issues and concerns, and life transitions.
A Culture of Compassion and Openness
One of the most powerful things we can do as a community is to create space for mental health conversations. Checking in on a friend, opening up about your own struggles, or simply listening without judgment all contribute to a healthier Canberra. Workplaces, schools, and community organisations are increasingly aware of their role in supporting mental health. If you're in a position of leadership, consider how policies, culture, and communication can foster psychological safety and inclusion.
Final Thoughts
Mental health challenges do not discriminate - they affect people from all walks of life, in every suburb of Canberra. But so does the capacity for healing, connection, and growth. Whether you’re thriving, surviving, or somewhere in between, it’s important to remember that support is always available - and that seeking help is not a weakness, but a wise and courageous step forward.
Let Canberra’s natural beauty, strong community spirit, and growing network of mental health professionals work in your favour. And if you’re looking for someone to talk to, reach out to a trusted counsellor like Eryn Long for personalised, supportive care.