Highlighting the relationship between mental health conditions and diet, this brief considers identified needs and relevant evidence to offer policy recommendations to increase awareness and accessibility of dietary support for the prevention and treatment of mental health conditions. 

Depression and anxiety are the most prevalent mental health disorders in Australia and antidepressant use in Australia is among the highest in OECD countries. Despite advances in mental health treatments, the proportion of Australians experiencing anxiety and depression continues to grow. 

The authors argue that evidence supports the role of diet in reducing the risk of depression and is under-utilised as a preventative and treatment strategy. 

Recommendations

1. Access to dietetic services for people with a common mental disorder requiring multidisciplinary treatment services should be provided through inclusion of Accredited Practising Dietitians as eligible providers under the Better Access Initiative. 
2. National Information and resources on the role of diet and nutrition in mental health should be commissioned, in addition to the suite of education and resources funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care for organisations and professionals to help them support people with mental ill-health. 
3. Social prescription within primary health care practice should include referral to community organisations and services providing individual support with nutrition for individuals with common mental disorders.
4. National, state and territory mental health policies and programs should raise public awareness of the role of nutrition and diet in mental health.