A recent survey reveals that only 1 in 100 people would talk to their dad first about a mental health problem, showing that family members are still often the last people we confide in.

The survey, conducted by England’s leading mental health anti-stigma programme Time to Change, shows that people often prefer to discuss a mental health problem with a GP (26%) or partner (37%) first, before going directly to a close family member, such as a parent or sibling. 

These findings are released as part of this summer’s national campaign from Time to Change, a programme run by mental health charities Mind and Rethink.  With a seasonal theme in mind, a brand new Time to Change advert will take to the airwaves around the awkwardness of speaking to someone with a mental illness at various summer social events such as barbecues.  Time to Change is encouraging the public to open up about mental health, especially amongst close family members.

The results show that only 1% would speak to their dad first before having a conversation with anyone else, followed closely by 4% deciding to open up to a sibling and only 8% of respondents speaking to their mum.  The research clearly demonstrates that there is still a lot of stigma surrounding mental health and that starting a conversation with a family member can often be the most difficult thing to overcome.  

Time to Change is fighting to end the stigma and discrimination surrounding mental health problems.  The latest campaign ‘It’s time to talk, it’s time to change,’ aims to encourage the nation to open up and not feel ashamed about their experiences.  The campaign launched earlier this year with treasured sports personality Frank Bruno fronting the initiative and a whole host of other famous faces including Davina McCall, Alastair Campbell and Claudia Winkleman backing the programme.

Time to Change Director Sue Baker said:  “This survey suggests that people are beginning to open up about mental health and are speaking to a partner or GP rather than not discussing it at all.  However, what it does highlight is that people with mental health problems are still often reluctant to have a conversation with the people closest to them, such as siblings or parents.

‘It’s time to talk, it’s time to change’ is all about breaking down those barriers and empowering families to speak out about mental illness.  Our aim is to encourage more open discussions so that people’s attitudes change towards mental health.”

Ex Eastenders cabbie Derek Martin shares his knowledge as a dad supporting his son David through mental illness: “What I’ve learnt is how important it is to be open and let someone know you’re there to listen.  It’s often hard to approach a family member as you don’t want them to worry or feel like you can’t cope.  It’s important for dads out there to fight the taboo of mental health and a few small words asking those close to our hearts how they are, can make a huge difference.”A few tips to start that important conversation:

• Take the lead: If you know someone has been unwell, don’t be afraid to ask how they are.
• Avoid clichés: Phrases like ‘Cheer up’, ‘I’m sure it’ll pass,’ and ‘Pull yourself together’ definitely won’t help the conversation! Try to be open minded and non-judgemental.
• Ask how you can help: People will want support at different times in different ways, so ask how you can help.
• Don’t avoid the issue: If someone comes to you to talk, don’t brush it off because this can be a hard step to take. Acknowledge their illness and let them know that you’re there for them.
• Choose a good time: Choose a time and place where you feel comfortable and ready to talk.

Please visit www.time-to-change.org.uk or facebook.com/timetochange for more information about starting your conversation about mental health or to watch the ‘It’s time to talk, it’s Time to Change’ advertising and see people sharing their experiences of talking about mental health.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, TO ARRANGE AN INTERVIEW WITH DEREK MARTIN OR NATIONAL AND LOCAL CASE STUDIES CALL:

Larissa Abl, Campaign PR Manager, on 020 7840 3137 or 07734227813
or email [email protected]

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