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WORLD METAL HEALTH DAY - CALL FOR WATCHDOG TO SET STANDARDS - National Body Says Media Reinforcing Stigma Around Mental Health

Tuesday 10th October 2006.

Today's headline in a national newspaper "Siege Nut Shot By Cop" reinforces the stigma attached to mental health issues, ironically on World Mental Health Day, according to the PwDI (People with Disabilities in Ireland), the national body representing all people with disabilities.

"This kind of language makes people who may be feeling vulnerable and alone even more so and it may push them further away from seeking help," said Mr Michael Ringrose, PwDI Chief Executive.

"This is very frustrating for all those working to build more enlightened attitudes to mental health issues.

"People who experience, what is in many cases, temporary disability, are filled with fear of unburdening themselves because of stigma, potential loss of job or being locked up.

"Today's headline in the Irish Sun newspaper exacerbates such feelings," said Mr Ringrose.

Calling for the establishment of a watchdog to set and monitor standards, he said:

"Standards need to be imposed by an organisation, such as a Press Council.

"Mental health remains the most feared and neglected area of health care in Ireland.

"These fears are often, unfortunately, solidly based. Many young people taking their own lives could be saved if fears around the issue could be tackled and addressed.

"The State does not deal adequately with the issue in a people-centred fashion.

"Employers too lack knowledge and understanding of the response needed - a response that could deliver for both employer and employee.

"High proportions of people are suffering in silence, sadly at a time when there is far greater information available and solutions in terms of medical advances.

"Many conditions can now be adequately dealt with without hospitalisation," said Mr Ringrose.

"Psychiatry appears to be taking the place of the confessional. Talking needs to be encouraged.

"We need to get away from the isolationist and lock-up mentality. We need to see equality of treatment when it comes to mental health care," he said.

Ends

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