Mental health: Poor media coverage reduces awareness

Awareness of mental health issues is falling far short of the mark because of an inappropriate amount of media coverage.

A recent survey by Mind revealed that nearly half of people asked could not remember seeing any stories or reports about mental health in media coverage over the last year.

Some 31 per cent of people were also unable to name a character or TV personality with a mental health problem, while only 59 per cent believed that newspaper coverage gave an accurate portrayal of mental health issues.

Paul Farmer, Mind chief executive, stated: "It is disappointing that mental health problems are still largely hidden from view in the media.

"This is an issue that is part of the fabric of everyday life, with one in four people experiencing a mental health problem every year."

Low levels and inefficient media coverage of mental health contributes to the growing lack of awareness of mental health issues in the UK.

Increasing public knowledge about mental health is vital to give patients the support they need and prevent them from becoming isolated from the wider community.

It is also important for early detection of symptoms, which is vital in many time-sensitive conditions.

Read about support and personalised care at Barchester care homes for anyone with mental health concerns.