Mental health stigma being tackled

MORE than half of Scots with mental health problems said they have faced stigma and discrimination.

But, in better news, people also said they felt that public perceptions around mental health are improving.

Charities say negative stereotypes have made it hard for people to seek help – but no-one should struggle alone.

See Me is Scotland’s programme to end mental health stigma and discrimination.

Its director Wendy Halliday, right, said: “Too many people in Scotland struggle alone because the stigma and discrimination around mental health can make it difficult to ask for help. A study we carried out of over 1000 people in Scotland with mental health problems found that 56% had experienced stigma and discrimination.

“We also spoke to our volunteers during the pandemic, and 54% of them said that the self stigma they felt about themselves and their mental health problems had increased during the last year.

“People said they felt guilty for struggling, as everyone was going through difficult times.

“No one should ever be made to feel ashamed or embarrassed to tell anyone they are struggling with their mental health, and we have to remove the stigma so people can speak about how they’re feeling before they reach a point where suicide feels like an option.”

Last year the latest figures showed that 833 suicides were registered in Scotland in 2019, up from 784 the year before. Of those who died by suicide in 2019, 620 were male and 213 female.

Wendy added: “We were really concerned to see a rise in the number of suicides across Scotland in the latest data in November, especially as this covered the period before the pandemic.

“While there will be a variety of reasons for this, the stigma and discrimination which stops people asking for help will undoubtedly be a contributor, especially for men. But there is hope.

“Our survey also found that 79 per cent think that public perceptions around mental health have improved in the last ten years, and 55 per cent said they would feel confident in challenging stigma and discrimination.”

Rachel Cackett, Executive Director for Samaritans Scotland, called for people to ask for help.

And she said, while it can be a tough conversation to have, it’s ok to ask friends and loved ones if they are struggling.

Rachel said: “At Samaritans Scotland we know that it can be difficult for people to talk openly and ask for help when they’re struggling or for family and friends to know how best to support a loved one.

“But we also know that when people are able to overcome this and start a conversation it can be life-changing and life-saving. “We’ve been encouraged in recent months to see a growing focus on the importance of mental health and wellbeing, and welcome developments like the Scotland-wide United to Prevent Suicide movement which is working to reduce stigma and support open conversations.

“It’s important to remember that we can all struggle to cope from time to time for a whole range of reasons and if you are finding things difficult, you’re not alone.

“Reaching out to a trusted family member, friend or a free, confidential service like Samaritans can give you the time and space to talk through what you’re feeling.

“Talking to someone else can help you to feel less alone.”