33% would not want a depressed person as a friend

ONE in three Irish people believe those who suffer from mental health issues are of “below average intelligence” and almost 50% believe the person should be discriminated against in terms of employment because they are “unreliable”.

A new survey released ahead world mental health day tomorrow has found that despite an increased awareness of mental health issues, long-standing stigmas continue to hamper those affected.

According to the survey, by the Dublin-based St Patrick’s University Hospital, one in three people would not “willingly” accept someone who is depressed as a close friend.

The findings were based on the views of 187 people across the country.

“Stigma remains a major hurdle for people accessing mental health services,” explained Paul Gilligan, chief executive of St Patrick’s University Hospital, who is launching a two-day information leaflet to coincide with the findings.

“It is a sad fact that because of this stigma many sufferers feel embarrassment and shame and are reluctant to seek appropriate supports. It is vital that more is done to educate and inform people about mental illness in Ireland.”

Support group Grow have called on health authorities to release €27 million in unspent funding promised in 2008 to help cope with a massive increase in people suffering from mental health issues.

Since January more than seven times as many young people have contacted the organisation than all of last year, according to the group which has support services in Cork, Letterkenny, Dublin, Waterford, Tullamore, Limerick and Galway.

Grow chief executive, Michelle Kerrigan said: “We are noticing a very disturbing pattern right across the country from young adults attending who are all experiencing the same social phobias.

“They are presenting with depression, anxiety, isolation and suicidal thoughts,” she added.