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[St Patrick's Mental Health Services] Stigma associated with mental health issues still prevalent in society. (10 Sep 2014)

External website: http://www.stpatricks.ie/stigma-associated-mental-...


New figures released today by St Patrick’s Mental Health Services show that the stigma associated with mental health issues are still prevalent in Irish Society.

This research was conducted via a dedicated online survey with 506 adults aged 18-70 years. It has a confidence rating of 95% and a confidence interval of 4.5%.

The findings indicate that;

  • 65% of respondents acknowledge that being treated for a mental health problem is viewed by Irish Society as a sign of failure.
  • 1 in 5 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. 

Paul Gilligan, CEO of St Patrick’s, says “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. People that proactively seek & receive help are taking a courageous step on the road to recovery. Irish Society should encourage and support this. And we as a society should encourage this. 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.

The survey also indicates that;

  • 53% (+4% since 2013) of people have worked with someone who has been treated with a mental health issue
  • 63% (+11%) have a close friend who was treated with a Mental Health difficulty
  • While 44% (+7%) report that a member of their family was previously treated
  • 5% report that people with a prior history of Mental Health issues should not have children with 10% uncertain
  • 6% claim that they would not want to live next door to someone who previously had a mental health problem with 14% uncertain
  • Similarly 6% hold the view that people with a previous history of a mental health issue should be excluded from taking public office with 13% uncertain
  • 13% (1 in 8) report they would not marry someone who previously experienced a mental health problem even though he/she seems fully recovered (with a further 19% uncertain)
  • Yet a little over 1 in 5 (22%) would not trust someone who previously had a mental health problem to be a babysitter (A further 28% (Don’t’ know/undecided)
  • only 53% agree that people with a mental health problem are trustworthy

Tom Maher Director of Services says “We know that mental illness has no prejudice. It affects people of every race, age, gender, religion and economic status. We also know that every family in Ireland is dealing with mental health issues today. It is vital that we educate ourselves and our families on understanding mental health and on the importance of managing our mental health.” 

Sarah Surgenor, Communications Manager at St. Patrick’s Mental Health Services says, “we need to start being more vigilant about how we discuss mental health difficulties within public forums and within the media. Much of this discussion adds to the misunderstandings and stigma”  

 

Other findings include;

A higher proportion of women (28%) v men (20%) report having been treated for a mental health issue

37% of people from the lowest income group (ie annual household income under 20K) report seeking treatment for their mental health compared with an average of 22% for all other income groups

Paul Gilligan continued; “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. Today, on World Suicide Awareness 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. Stigma unfortunately still remains the biggest of these. We need to impress upon all those experiencing mental health difficulties that beginning on the road to recovery is a step to be proud of and will help them live enjoyable and fulfilling live.

Mental Health Support & Information Service

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