One In Five People Affected By Mental Health Problems In NI

One in five people are affected by mental health problems in Northern Ireland.

Four people will also know a friend, family member or colleague who will be experiencing mental ill-health.

A new media campaign has been launched to encourage the public to offer support to those who may be struggling with their mental health.

Health Minister Michelle O'Neill said: "It is important that society is open about discussing mental health and that people are willing to talk to their friends and family if they feel concerned about their mental health.

"For many people, being able to talk to someone they trust about how they are feeling could be the first step towards recovery."

Mary Black, Assistant Director of Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement with the PHA, said: "One in five of us at any one time will show signs of a mental health problem. The other four will know a friend, family member or colleague who will be experiencing mental ill-health, so this is an issue that affects us all in some way.

"People in the north of Ireland are generally sympathetic to mental health issues, but there is a reluctance to start and then hold the conversation about mental health issues. Through this campaign, we want to encourage the public to take that step and start a conversation with someone they are worried about.

"People may feel uncomfortable about starting the conversation or may not know what to say, so this campaign will include resources such as a leaflet and website which give tips on asking, listening and talking about mental health and maintaining that important conversation."

(CD/JP)