New Survey Reveals How The Credit Crunch Is Affecting Our Mental Health, UK

Main Category: Mental Health
Also Included In: Anxiety / Stress;  Psychology / Psychiatry;  Depression
Article Date: 13 Oct 2008 - 3:00 PDT

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A new survey out today on World Mental Health Day has revealed that whilst the credit crunch has understandably made many people a little more depressed and anxious, just 8% had become a lot more depressed and anxious.

The YouGov survey commissioned by mental healthcare specialists Affinity found that overall 51% of people surveyed said that they were in fact unaffected by the current financial circumstances, and a further 37% had been a little more anxious or depressed. There were some variations in responses in that greater levels of effect were reported in those aged between 45-54 (41% a little more anxious and depressed, 9% a lot more anxious and depressed). Also the most affected regions have been Yorkshire and the Humber (46%), West Midlands and East of England (all with 47%) whilst the North East is the least, with 37%.

An issue raised through this survey was variation in how open people are in acknowledging mental health symptons. People in the North East are more likely to admit they have suffered a mental illness (24%) whilst those in the East of England and the South West are least likely to (11%).

Affinity Healthcare's consultant psychiatrist and honorary professor at Chester University Dr Ben Green said: "This is an interesting snapshot of the UK's mental health. It is clear that the credit crunch is having some effect on people's mental wellbeing, and it is clear that there is variation in how open some people are able to be about their mental health.

"Mental health is often affected by the economic climate and it's understandable that homeowners are more likely to feel more depressed and anxious due to the current economic turbulence. However, with openness and support, symptoms might well resolve."

He added that mental illness, which can be a problem with anxiety, mood or behaviour or a mental disorder, is misunderstood in the UK. The survey revealed that mental health problems affect many people's lives, either directly or through family members or close friends. Women are more likely to speak out with 17% admitting to suffering from a mental illness compared to 13% of men.

Dr Ben Green continued: "This survey is aimed at raising awareness of mental health and dispelling the negative stereotypes that people attach to the disorder. It revealed that 36% of respondents thought drug addicts would be most likely to suffer from a mental health problems, with another 19% admitting to thinking elderly people would be most likely to suffer.

"With some commentators stating that 1 in 4 of all people are likely to suffer from a mental health problem at some point in their life, we believe that these findings show that many people don't realise that it can be something as common as suffering from depression or anxiety."

Dr Green added "Another worrying area of this survey is that a high proportion of young people aged 18-24 (38%) seem to be turning to the internet as a way of diagnosing their problem rather than seeking treatment from a professional. It's vital that someone who suffers from mental health problems seeks professional clinical help in the form of a family doctor or a recognised support service.

"Mental health problems can leave individuals feeling isolated and alone. On World Mental Health Day, it's important that people realise they don't have to suffer alone and that there is help available."

For help and advice on any mental health issues contact:
MindinfoLine (Monday to Friday 9.00am - 5.00pm) on 0845 766 0163

-- YouGov polled 2,039 people across the UK between 30th September- 2nd October

-- Affinity Healthcare is a leading provider of mental health services to the NHS and operates Cheadle Royal Hospital, Cheshire and Middleton St George Hospital, Darlington

-- Affinity Healthcare has over 200 years of experience in treating the mentally ill

-- Affinity has the expertise to provide treatment that addresses mental health and the risk issues to affect positive outcomes

-- Affinity is a provider of multidisciplinary, patient-centered, high quality and cost effective treatment

-- The World Health Organisation study in 2001 found that 1 in 4 people in the world will suffer from mental illness in their lifetime

For more information on Affinity Healthcare go to http://www.affinityhealth.co.uk

For more information on Mind go to http://www.mind.org.uk

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