Survey reveals truth about stigma

Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust has conducted a survey to find out more about how mental health stigma affects people living in the Rochdale borough.

278 people completed the survey, which found that 64 per cent of respondents have been treated badly or unfairly as a result of a mental health problem. Stigma most commonly prevents people from working or progressing in work, being happy, going out and making friends or having a relationship.

When describing how stigma makes them feel, respondents shared feelings of anger, shame and frustration and said that it often makes them feel depressed, sad and lacking in confidence.

Dr Henry Ticehurst, Medical Director at Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust, said: “The survey has enforced the need to continue to improve local understanding and awareness of mental health issues to try and reduce the stigma that many people face.

“Having a mental health problem shouldn’t be a taboo or frowned upon. It affects as many as 1 in 4 of us, which could be even more locally, so there’s a high chance that someone you know has a problem or you may even end up needing help yourself one day.”

As a result of the survey, Pennine Care is planning to conduct a pilot project that will focus on raising awareness of mental health problems in the workplace by linking up with local businesses. It was found that 29 per cent of people feel that stigma prevents them from working or progressing in their careers.

The Trust also plans to refresh its mental health anti-stigma campaign, ‘Me, You, Him, Her,’ using the findings of the survey to improve the messaging and focus awareness raising activities.

Dr Ticehurst added: “It’s important that we continue to champion mental health in the local area and we’d encourage anyone who wants to support this initiative to get in touch.”

You can find out more about mental health and Pennine Care’s anti-stigma activities by becoming a member of the Trust. Visit www.penninecare.nhs.uk or call 0161 716 3374