1 In 3 Young People Do Not Feel That They Could Recognise The Signs And Symptoms Of Common Mental Health Conditions
#OpenMinds is a new campaign by spunout which asks young people in Ireland to keep an open mind about mental health.
The campaign aims to reframe the understanding and challenge misconceptions of mental health ahead of World Mental Health Day on October 10th.
The campaign hopes to empower young people to better understand their own experiences and learn how best to care for themselves by developing a deeper understanding of what mental health is, and the wide range of factors that can affect it like trauma and social inequality.
By explaining that mental health is more than just mental illness, the campaign hopes to help a generation of young people better understand that mental health isn’t either “good” or “bad,” but that it is ever changing and can fluctuate depending on a person’s situation in life.
Survey results showed that 43% of 16-25 year olds in Ireland do not reach out for mental health support when they need it.
This finding underscores the need for continued mental health information, because a limited understanding of mental health conditions is a known barrier to seeking mental health support.
The research, funded by the HSE’s National Office for Suicide Prevention, of over 1,400 young people, conducted by youth mental health charity spunout, also reveals:
1 in 3 young people do not feel that they could recognise the signs and symptoms of common mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression or disordered eating.
94% of young people frequently hear mental health language used jokingly in everyday conversations.
1 in 4 young people said they didn’t know where to go if they needed mental health support.
Speaking about the importance of the Open Minds campaign, spunout Director, Kiki Martire, said:
“The #OpenMinds research shows that when young people don’t fully understand the spectrum of mental health, they can misunderstand their own experiences or diminish or dismiss other people’s mental health challenges.
Our campaign aims to increase all of our understanding of mental health so that we can better identify when we need help and where to find the support we need.
Similar to our physical health, our mental health is something that is with us at all times, not only during times of illness or hardship.
Anyone can experience a mental health condition, but there are also those made more vulnerable to mental health issues due to their treatment in society.
When it comes to mental health, with #OpenMinds we can broaden our understanding of mental health and learn from each other for better, more understanding communities.”
Spunout has collaborated with Irish illustrator Tara O’Brien to create social creative content and tote bags to promote awareness of the campaign.
If you’d like to talk to a trained volunteer about your mental health or how you’re feeling, simply text the word HELLO to 50808 for free anytime 24/7.
