Latest Appeal: Breaking down the taboo surrounding mental illness

Mental health needs to be out in the open

Years ago illnesses such as cancer were talked about in hushed tones and euphemisms. Now, as we know more about effective treatments, cancer has become a topic of everyday conversation.

If only the same could be said for mental illness. 

It can be hard enough for people to discuss issues they’re worried about with their friends and families.

Perhaps the worst thing about the taboo surrounding mental illness is that people often feel they can’t talk to their doctor.

Many people with mental health problems make repeated visits to their GP before finding a way to discuss what is really troubling them. 

Without early help, it’s all too easy to get trapped in a destructively downward spiral – something that can destroy businesses, careers and friendships that took a lifetime to build up, and can shatter the most loving relationships. 

Mental health needs to be out in the open Donate now

Why should we be embarrassed?

1 in 4 people in the UK experience some kind of mental health problem every year. We have one of the highest rates of self-harm amongst young people in Europe – 1 in 10.

We don’t stand a chance of tackling these problems and helping all these people if they don’t even feel able to talk openly with their GP.

How we are helping

The publications we research and distribute – more than 90,000 of them a year – are based on the experiences of people who have been there.

Our media campaigns dispel myths and confusion about mental health. Every year we hear from hundreds of people thanking us for reaching their loved ones with our information in newspapers and magazines.

Our booklets, reports and website are all designed to help medical professionals and people with mental health problems, their families and friends, discuss the issues in a practical way that’s understandable to everyone.

Reading real life stories about mental health problems can be a significant turning point for someone who is feeling lost and overwhelmed by their feelings.

Realising they are not alone and that there is help available is the first step on the road to recovery for most people. 

Whatever you can give today will mean so much to people who are struggling to keep their lives together because of mental health problems: from emotionally disturbed young people to those in later life who are suffering from dementia.  

As we are a charity, we can only do all this vital work with your support. Donate now