A University of Queensland-led study found men with severe mental illness died an average 12 years earlier than the general population and women about 10 years earlier; researchers cited preventable physical illness, particularly cardiovascular disease, as a major contributor.
The analysis covered approximately 255,000 Queensland hospital patients over 14 years, including people with depressive, neurotic and stress-related disorders, alcohol- and drug-use disorders, and psychotic disorders. Overall mortality improved during the period, but not for people with psychotic disorders; lead researcher Dr. Mike Trott said their mortality rate had flatlined.
Suicide remains a concern, but researchers say physical illnesses—including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory disease, cancer and infections—account for much of the excess mortality. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare estimates about four in five premature deaths in this population are linked to potentially preventable physical conditions. Some antipsychotics may affect weight and metabolism; researchers emphasize physical-health monitoring alongside mental-health care, not stopping prescribed medication.
