Campaign challenges attitudes to mental health

A new campaign to challenge attitudes to mental health will be aired today.

The National Disability Authority (NDA) will unveil the second phase of its television, radio and bus shelter programme to highlight the plight of everyday people who may be suffering in silence.

Former GAA star Dessie Farrell, journalist Carol Hunt, chess player Paul Leavy and Marie Devine, a mother of two – all who have experienced mental health difficulties – will front the latest set of ads.

The organisation said research proved the first phase of the campaign, launched after Christmas, positively influenced public attitudes to people with a mental health difficulty.

NDA chair Angela Kerins said a survey revealed more than half of adults to recalled the ads said they were positively disposed to people with disabilities.

And of the 36% who recalled the campaign from the photo prompt material, 67% said they were more positively disposed towards those with a mental health difficulty.

“We identified a real need to challenge public attitudes to people with mental health difficulties following an NDA public attitudes to people with disabilities survey,” she said.

“This showed that while attitudes towards people with disabilities generally are improving, when it came to mental health there were continuing negative attitudes to both children and adults with mental health difficulties.

“Our campaign just after Christmas was very successful in getting the message out and challenging attitudes.

“It also helped the public realise that one in four people can experience a mental health difficulty and yet with support they can go on to lead full lives.

“We look forward to generating further change in people’s attitude to those with a mental health difficulty, thus helping those with a mental disability live fuller and more fruitful lives,” she added.