Select ONE of the following conditions to answer BOTH parts (a) and (b) of this question.
- Diabetes
- Respiratory disease
- Injury
- Mental health problems and illnesses
- Outline the extent of this condition in Australia. (3 marks)
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- Explain how sociocultural determinants affect ONE group at risk of this condition. (4 marks)
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a. Condition selected – Mental health problems and illnesses
- Mental health conditions affect approximately one in five Australians, making them highly prevalent. Young people aged 16-24 experience the highest rates, with significantly higher prevalence than older age groups. Anxiety disorders are the most common type.
- The prevalence has increased significantly among young people, particularly females, over the past decade. Mental health conditions represent one of the leading causes of disease burden in Australia, demonstrating a major public health challenge.
b. Group at risk: Young people aged 16-24
- Sociocultural determinants significantly influence mental health outcomes for young people. Social media and peer pressure create unrealistic expectations and comparison culture, leading to anxiety and depression. This occurs because young people are particularly vulnerable to social validation.
- Family dynamics and socioeconomic status affect access to support systems and professional help. Low-income families often cannot afford private mental health services, resulting in delayed treatment. Social isolation and stigma prevent young people from seeking help.
- Educational pressures and career uncertainty contribute to stress and anxiety. These factors interact to compound mental health risks, particularly for disadvantaged young people who face multiple sociocultural barriers.
Show Worked Solution
a. Condition selected – Mental health problems and illnesses
- Mental health conditions affect approximately one in five Australians, making them highly prevalent. Young people aged 16-24 experience the highest rates, with significantly higher prevalence than older age groups. Anxiety disorders are the most common type.
- The prevalence has increased significantly among young people, particularly females, over the past decade. Mental health conditions represent one of the leading causes of disease burden in Australia, demonstrating a major public health challenge.
b. Group at risk: Young people aged 16-24
- Sociocultural determinants significantly influence mental health outcomes for young people. Social media and peer pressure create unrealistic expectations and comparison culture, leading to anxiety and depression. This occurs because young people are particularly vulnerable to social validation.
- Family dynamics and socioeconomic status affect access to support systems and professional help. Low-income families often cannot afford private mental health services, resulting in delayed treatment. Social isolation and stigma prevent young people from seeking help.
- Educational pressures and career uncertainty contribute to stress and anxiety. These factors interact to compound mental health risks, particularly for disadvantaged young people who face multiple sociocultural barriers.
♦ Mean mark (b) 55%.