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Studies done to explore the experiences of people with bipolar disorder with primary care and specialist mental health services is reported. People with extensive experience of bipolar disorder report barriers to optimal care because of lack of community understanding and healthcare system shortcomings.

A study is conducted to explore the experiences of carers and families of people with depression. The conclusion states that the experiences of carers and families of people with depression indicate the need for more extensive community education about the illness and more productive collaboration within the healthcare system.

A survey of Australians suffering from depression found that the stigma associated with this mental illness is perceived in healthcare settings and in barriers to social participation, particularly in the workplace. Persons suffering from depression have trouble finding a physician knowledgeable enough in the subject to provide them with or direct them to appropriate care.

A survey of public attitudes towards depression conducted in 10/01 found that the majority of respondents do not perceive mental health as a major public health concern, they are aware of depression as a mental health problem. The survey also found that, while there is a preference for non-pharmacological treatments, respondents were not as negative as expected towards antidepressants. Other aspects of the survey are discussed. Tables and graphs present survey findings.