One in three Brits have decided against seeking mental health support due to stigma
Share this @internewscast.com

New research, involving 1,000 adults, revealed that 21% believe people who go to therapy are ‘mentally weak’, a figure that escalates to 25% among Gen Z. As a result of this ongoing stigma, one in three have refrained from seeking mental health support. In fact, 60% of respondents believe this enduring stigma deters struggling individuals from seeking necessary help.

Over a third said they fear being judged if they opt for professional help while a quarter worry it could negatively impact their career prospects. As a result, over half prefer to tackle issues independently, with 36% citing societal pressure and stigma as a key reason. Many admitted they would avoid going to therapy as they worried about reactions from friends and family. Some confessed they would even avoid telling their partner.

Fernando Madeira, president and CEO of BetterHelp, which commissioned the research and released its global State of Stigma report to mark Mental Health Awareness Month, commented: “Mental health stigma is deeply rooted in societal attitudes and misconceptions.

“Many people fear judgment from their peers and family, believing seeking therapy is a sign of weakness. As a result, people often feel uncomfortable sharing their struggles or seeking the support they need.

“We exist to champion the well-being of everyone in the UK – and envisage a future where everyone can get the help they need, when they need it.”

Among those who have never accessed therapy, 14% said they avoided it due to fear of judgment from family or friends, and 35% pointed to a lack of social support as a key barrier.

Practical obstacles also play a significant role. Nearly half (49%) said finding mental health support is difficult, 41% cited cost as a barrier, 21% reported poor access to providers, and 19% said they didn’t know how to begin the process.

The study highlighted that stigma is particularly pronounced among Gen Z, despite their disproportionate mental health challenges. This group is more likely than any other age group to view therapy as a sign of weakness.

They are nearly twice as likely as Baby Boomers to experience mild to moderate anxiety (47% vs. 25%) and more than four times as likely to suffer from severe anxiety (24% vs. 7%). Additionally, only 39% of Gen Z participants reported feeling happy, compared to 54% of Millennials and 61% of Baby Boomers. And nearly a third of Gen Z respondents showed signs of moderate to severe depression.

BetterHelp therapist Richard Whitenstall added: “Gen Z face pressure from social media to project a perfect life, which can lead to unrealistic expectations, fear of judgement and many hiding their struggles, which fosters stigma.

“Growing up in environments where discussing mental health is taboo further reinforces this stigma, making it harder to seek help.”

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

Two Popular British Foods That Help Reduce Blood Pressure

Drinking tea and nibbling on dark chocolate could boost your heart health.…

Over-the-Counter Supplement Helps 8-Year-Old Regain Ability to Walk

A compound that can make a common over-the-counter supplement has given an…

Chris’s Struggle to Save His Wife Amidst Medical Oversight: Vital Lessons for Every Family

Chris Yates pleaded with nurses and counselors to save his wife’s life.…

Wes Streeting Addresses Potential Doctor Strikes – What It Means for You

The British Medical Association (BMA) has revealed plans for resident doctors, previously…

Warm temperatures may affect your blood pressure – 6 safety tips for the weekend

Blood pressure reflects the force of your blood against the artery walls…

Renowned Psychologist Highlights Unexpected Mounjaro Side Effect Impacting Relationships

Experts have sounded the alarm over a bizarre side effect that may…

UK Hospitals with High Mortality Rates: NHS Trusts with Elevated Patient Deaths, According to Report – How Does Your Hospital Compare?

NHS hospitals in England where patient fatalities are higher than expected have…

Wimbledon Finalist Diagnosed with Cancer After Initial Dismissal of Symptoms by Doctor

Gabriela Dabrowski received a breast cancer diagnosis a year after a physician…

New Study Finds Popular Drug May Increase Dementia Risk by Up to 40%

A commonly taken drug for lower back pain could raise the risk…

Dr. Hilary Jones Reveals Unique Method to Improve Mood Swings and Reduce Blood Pressure

TV doctor Hilary Jones has shed light on an “unusual tactic” that…