New research has found that 20 per cent of people believe that those suffering from mental health problems are of low intelligence.
The shocking statistics, which were compiled in St. Patrick’s University Hospital in Dublin, revealed that 40 per cent of us consider admitting having mental health problems as a personal failure.
The study, which was published in today’s Irish Independent, revealed that two-thirds of employers are reluctant to hire those who have a history of mental illness believing them to be unreliable and 30 per cent of us would not build a friendship with someone who had mental health problems.
The figures are based on a poll, where 300 people were questioned about their attitudes regarding mental health.
30% of people admitted they would not become close friends with a person who had a history of mental health problems
Shockingly, some participants stated that mental health illnesses are ‘trendy’, as more and more public figures admit to suffering from poor mental health at different points in their lives.
Paul Gilligan, CEO of St Patrick’s University said: “Stigma is complex. Some forms of mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety, have become more accepted because people are more likely to attribute these difficulties to stress, with which most can identify.
“On the other hand, the stigma associated with psychosis appears to have worsened.
“As a result, people are extremely reluctant to discuss their mental health problems and they feel they are letting themselves and their family down if they seek help,” he revealed.
Paul added: “We need to acknowledge our own experiences and fears about mental health, confront our biases and educate ourselves on the true nature of mental health and well-being.”
