Share with:
New figures, released today by the Time to Change campaign, reveal the devastating impact of stigma faced by those of us with a mental health problem. Results showed that almost two fifths (38%) of respondents had been negatively treated as a result of their mental health problem – potentially affecting millions nationwide.
The findings are being released on Time to Talk Day, to encourage people to talk more openly about mental health. Time to Talk Day was established four years ago, in recognition of the fact that people talking and sharing their experiences changes the attitudes of those around them. Over recent years, Time to Talk Day has triggered millions of conversations across the country – both offline and online.
Time to Talk Day is organised by Time to Change, a campaign led by the charities Mind and Rethink Mental Illness, and funded by Comic Relief, the Department of Health and the Big Lottery Fund.
Sue Baker, Director of Time to Change, said: “These figures show the devastating impact that mental health stigma continues to have on potentially millions of lives. We know that progress is being made in improving attitudes and reducing discrimination in some key areas of life but too many of us are still being made to feel isolated, ashamed and worthless by other people’s reactions, resulting in the loss of what means the most – our friends, our families, our jobs.
“The good news is that being open about mental health, and ready to listen, can make a positive difference and potentially change lives. Time to Talk Day is a great reason for everyone to get involved and become part of our movement to change how we all think and act about mental health.”
You can join in the conversation online using the hashtag #timetotalk on Twitter or Facebook. For more information and to get involved in Time to Talk Day visit time-to-change.org.uk(opens in new window).
