Mental illness is one of the biggest health challenges of our lifetime. Every day, nine Australians die by suicide, and 43% of Australian adults will experience mental illness in their lifetime. Yet more than 60% of current clinical mental health interventions have no proven effectiveness.
Breakthrough Mental Health Research Foundation is a for-purpose organisation working to create a life free from mental illness through Research, Connection and Education.
RESEARCH
We invest in evidence-based research, proven programs and earlier intervention, with a core focus on depression, youth mental health, eating disorders and Indigenous mental health.
Working with Flinders University and other leading institutions, we support Professor Bridianne O’Dea’s youth mental health research and Dr Ian Zajac’s work in men’s mental health and suicide prevention.
We fund programs including Big Talks for Little People, helping children understand emotions, build resilience and reduce bullying, and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy for young people experiencing severe emotional distress, self-harm or suicidal thoughts.
CONNECTION
Our work reaches rural and regional communities affected by isolation, drought and environmental pressures. Through workshops, wellbeing programs and our sell-out Men’s Meals and Mental Health dinners at Adelaide Oval, we create safe spaces for connection and life-changing conversations.
EDUCATION
We deliver Mental Health First Aid, awareness and suicide-prevention training across South Australia. With Movember, we deliver Ahead of the Game through community sport, helping young people, parents, coaches and volunteers recognise challenges, build resilience and seek support early.
Following three sell-out years at Adelaide Oval, were excited to extend our Mental Health events nationally, with the first interstate event at the MCG on 16 October, 2026.
Together, we can create a life free from mental illness.
