Adverts tackle stigma of mental illness

FORMER Dublin Gaelic football star Dessie Farrell features in a new national television and radio campaign aimed at removing the stigma around mental health.

The ads will run from today for several weeks highlighting how mental difficulties should not prevent people from leading a full and active life.

Mr Farrell, who heads the Gaelic Players Association, has battled against depression.

Also giving an insight into the illness, through the ads, are chess master Paul Leavy who was diagnosed with schizophrenia at the aged of 17; journalist Carol Hunt, who suffered postnatal depression; and mother-of- two Marie Devine, who has battled with anorexia.

The campaign, run by the National Disability Authority, was launched after research showed a fifth of parents would object if their child was taught alongside a youngster with mental problems.

Advertisements will also be posted at bus shelters.

Jimmy Devins, junior minister with responsibility for mental health, launched the campaign yesterday.

“Mental health affects society as a whole,” he said. “No one is immune from poor mental health.

“Perceptions around mental illnesses need to be changed.

“Stereotypes given to those living with a mental illness need to be broken. Mental health is as important as physical health.”

Research by the World Health Organisation shows one in four people will experience mental health difficulties at some stage in their lives.

Authority director Siobhan Barron said the adverts were designed to change people’s attitudes.

“[The authority] believes that in order for people with mental health difficulties to have real opportunities to participate in work, school and the social life of the community, public attitudes must change,” she said.