Mission Australia's latest annual survey has found more than 50 per cent of 20-to-24 year olds in capital cities reported depression as a major concern, compared to 40 percent in country areas.
Research manager Anne Hampshire says the figures probably don't reflect a lower incidence of depression in rural and regional areas, but a lack of knowledge.
“That one's a bit of a concern because we do know that young people living in rural areas are more likely to have mental health and depression issues emerging for them, because of poorer access to services. So that's one where I think we do need perhaps some more information strategies and support strategies around the issues of depression and early intervention for young people in rural communities,” Ms Hampshire said.