There’s less pressure on men to be the blokey, blue-collar, beer-swilling larrikin who represented the ideal, average Australian male for years, while the current prime minister, governor-general, two state premiers and numerous business leaders have shown young women the fight for equality has come a long way.

Yet despite efforts by governments, charities and community groups, society as a whole remains reluctant to embrace change in one vital area: discussion of mental health issues such as depression.

Depression and other mood disorders still have a great deal of stigma attached to them. This is despite the latest figures showing one in five Australians will experience depression during their lifetime.

Society’s reluctance to discuss depression is understandable. It isn’t a pleasant topic and, due to the wide variety of symptoms, severity and causes of depression and similar problems, it can be difficult to comprehend.

What’s less understandable is that a large swathe of Australian society still regards the open expression of one’s emotions to be a sign of weakness. The ‘harden up’ mentality, popularised in rather bizarre circumstances by a comedian impersonating an ex-convict, is still held by many young men.

Such an attitude only serves to alienate people already feeling helpless and isolated, especially in my age group.

Although women are more likely than men to suffer from depression, men are more likely to attempt to take their own life. According to the ABS, 22.1 per cent of deaths in the male 15 to 24 demographic were attributed to suicide in 2009.

I personally know of at least three people who have tried to take their own life.

It’s a serious issue affecting young people. The problem is exacerbated in rural and regional areas, where resources and accommodating attitudes can be more difficult to find.

The statistics also rise for young gay and lesbian Australians.

It’s hard enough dealing with the challenges of adolescence and young adulthood without having to deal with coming out to potentially prejudicial friends and family, as well as having public figures condemning your sexuality as something to be ashamed of.

Organisations such as Beyond Blue, Lifeline and the Black Dog Institute have done an excellent job at raising awareness and providing support to people suffering from depression.

Many public figures suffering from mood disorders have also opened up about their experiences. Stephen Fry, one of my idols and a bipolar sufferer, has spoken at length in interviews and documentaries about the condition.

Each of these efforts show people suffering from such a condition that they are not alone.

It would be foolish to suggest these problems can simply be resolved through greater awareness and community understanding.

Depression is a complicated issue requiring both professional and community support.

But raising awareness, eliminating the ‘harden up’ attitude and encouraging people to keep an eye out for their friends and offer their support when they’re feeling down is the first step towards removing the stigma.

What do you think? Have you experienced depression or know someone who has?

Let me know your thoughts by contacting me via email at stephen.jeffrey@ruralpress.com or via Twitter at @stephenejeffery.

Readers seeking support and information about depression can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit www.beyondblue.org.au