Released in conjunction with Mental Health Month, new research has found that while Australians value connection, many feel they are drifting apart.
Nearly two-thirds of people (64%) believe society is becoming more disconnected, despite recognising the positive impact that connection and belonging have on mental health, according to new research released by Mental Health Australia.
The nationally representative Essential survey found that only 21% of people feel very connected to friends, family, neighbours or their community. About a third (30%) say they feel less connected to others than they did 10 years ago, while 65% say feeling disconnected from others can negatively affect their mental health.
Many people recognise the importance of social connection for their wellbeing. More than half (57%) said feeling included and part of something bigger than themselves helps them cope during stressful times, while 64% said feeling connected and having a sense of belonging positively impacts their mental health.
The findings come as Mental Health Australia launches the national 2026 Mental Health Month campaign under the theme Together We Thrive, highlighting the critical role connection, belonging and community play in mental health and wellbeing.
Throughout the month, Mental Health Month ambassadors including clinical psychologist and regular guest on The Imperfects podcast Dr Emily Musgrove, broadcaster Myf Warhurst, performer Rob Mills, media personality Brooke Blurton and comedian Dilruk Jayasinha will share personal messages encouraging people to prioritise connection and support one another.
The survey also found that almost one in five people (19%) feel disconnected from others. While 85% of people have friends or family they can count on for support, one in seven (15%) do not, and nearly half (47%) believe people in their community look out for one another.
Worryingly, only 29% of people said they would feel comfortable telling their employer they were struggling with their mental health, compared with 67% who would feel comfortable telling friends.
Mental Health Australia CEO Carolyn Nikoloski said the findings highlight a growing “connection gap” between the value people place on connection and belonging and how connected many feel in their daily lives.
“People understand the importance of connection and community, yet many feel like we’re drifting further apart. That’s concerning, because connection is an important protective factor for our mental health and wellbeing,” Ms Nikoloski said.
“Right now, many people are navigating uncertainty, rising costs and constant change, which can leave us feeling overwhelmed and disconnected. Yet our fundamental need to feel connected, safe, understood and valued hasn’t changed.”
“As Mental Health Month begins, it’s a timely reminder that even small moments of care, kindness, conversation and connection can help strengthen belonging and support good mental health.”
“Whether it’s reaching out to a friend you haven’t seen in a while, joining a local group, chatting with your local barista or saying hello to a fellow dog walker, simple acts of connection can help foster belonging and community.”
The survey findings also suggest many people still feel uncomfortable talking about mental health challenges, particularly in the workplace.
“While we’ve made important progress in reducing stigma around mental health, these results show many people still don’t feel comfortable speaking openly at work about mental health challenges,” Ms Nikoloski said.
Mental Health Australia has developed a range of free campaign resources, including wellbeing calendars, social media tiles, posters and other promotional materials to encourage people to get involved throughout Mental Health Month.
“Mental Health Month is an important opportunity to raise awareness of mental health, reduce stigma and encourage people to seek support when they need it.
“It’s also a chance to pause, check in with ourselves and consider the role we can play in helping people feel connected and supported,” Ms Nikoloski said.
“Together We Thrive is more than a theme. It’s a powerful reminder that strong connections are essential for good mental health, and that when people feel connected, included and supported, individuals, families and communities can thrive.”
For more information, visit Mental Health Australia, the national independent peak body for Australia’s mental health sector.
