Some 65% of people say being treated for a mental health problem is viewed by Irish society as a sign of failure, according to a new survey.
The survey, carried out by St. Patrick’s Mental Health Services and published today to coincide with World Suicide Prevention Day indicates that stigmas associated with mental health issues are still prevalent.
"The fact that 65% of people surveyed acknowledge that being treated for a mental health problem is viewed by Irish society as a sign of failure is very disappointing," said Paul Gilligan, CEO of St Patrick’s Hospital.
"People that proactively seek and receive help are taking a courageous step on the road to recovery (and) Irish society should encourage and support this," Mr Gilligan added.
"While there are many mental health public awareness campaigns being run throughout Ireland there is a need to tackle these misunderstandings and stimatising attitudes and this is best achieved through a concerted schools based education campaign."
This research was conducted online, with 506 adults aged between 18 and 70 taking part.
Among the findings were:
- 65% of respondents acknowledge that being treated for a mental health problem is viewed by Irish society as a sign of failure;
- One in five of those survedy would not trust someone who previously had a mental health problem;
- 53% of respondents have worked with somebody with a mental health difficulty;
- 58% disagree that Irish people would treat someone with a mental health problem the same as anyone else;
- Only 54% hold the view that Irish people would willingly accept someone with a mental health problem as a close friend.
- One in five of those survedy would not trust someone who previously had a mental health problem;
- 53% of respondents have worked with somebody with a mental health difficulty;
- 58% disagree that Irish people would treat someone with a mental health problem the same as anyone else;
- Only 54% hold the view that Irish people would willingly accept someone with a mental health problem as a close friend.
Meanwhile a higher proportion of women (28%) than men (20%) report having been treated for a mental health issue.
"Mental health issues and suicidal ideation are linked however this does not mean that if you have a mental health issue you will attempt suicide," Mr Gilligan added.
www.irishexaminer.com/ireland/video-see-why-its-okay-to-talk-about-mens-mental-health-285579.html
www.irishexaminer.com/ireland/video-see-why-its-okay-to-talk-about-mens-mental-health-285579.html
"Today, on World Suicide Prevention Day, our focus must be on removing as many barriers as possible to people with mental health difficulties seeking the help and support they require."
Meanwhile Junior Minister for Mental Health Kathleen Lynch will address Console'sannual conference on suicide prevention in Dublin this morning.
Paul Kelly, CEO and founder of Console, is calling on Minister Lynch to invest more money in mental health services.
"There are major cutbacks in the health service and we would be advocating that more investment is needed in mental health services and in the area of suicide prevention," Mr Kelly said.
"We welcome the Minister attending this morning and these will be topics that are open for discussion among delegates at the conference."
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