‘People don’t pursue the help they need’

ACCORDING to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression is one of the leading causes of disability.

Suicide is the second leading cause of death among the 15- to 29-year-old age group.

People with severe mental health conditions die prematurely – as much as two decades earlier – because of preventable physical conditions.

Almost 50% of a survey’s respondents have not sought mental health assistance in the past even when they knew they needed it.

According to the Meru Health survey, the top reasons were that it was too expensive (38%), followed by too difficult (35%) and that there was not enough time (28%).

About a quarter of the participants were worried about stigma, or confidentiality, and 23% did not pursue care because they were unable to find a provider. On average, about one in four employees (24%) would prefer digital mental health assistance over in-person assistance. Thirty percent of employees would prefer a programme that enabled them to chat online, or via text with providers daily or as needed.

“It’s shocking to me to see so many people not pursuing the mental health assistance they need,” said a Meru Health spokesperson.

“I envision that one day, getting help for mental health problems would be as easy and stigma-free as it is for any other health problem.

“To get there, employers need to ensure that all employees are aware of their mental health benefits, and that employees know that such programmes are completely confidential and that there is no shame in asking for help.

“Providing digital options offers a low-threshold and flexible option to get care whenever and wherever needed. It also allows for asynchronous care: you can get help and talk to someone when you need it and not have to wait for your appointment.” |