Surviving or Thriving? The state of the UK’s mental health

Introduction

Mental health is a vital part of our overall well-being, not just the absence of mental illness. Good mental health enables us to think, feel, and act in ways that help us enjoy life and face its challenges. However, it’s easy to fall into the trap of believing that ongoing stress is a necessary part of life. This mindset needs to change.

In March 2017, the Mental Health Foundation commissioned NatCen to conduct a survey across England, Scotland, and Wales to explore the prevalence of self-reported mental health issues, levels of positive and negative mental health, and the strategies people use to cope with stress. The survey included 2,290 interviews, with 82% conducted online and 18% by phone.

Key Findings

• Only a small fraction of people (13%) reported having high levels of positive mental health.
• Individuals over 55 tend to experience better mental health than average.
• Those aged 55 and above are more likely to take proactive steps to manage daily life, such as spending time with loved ones, walking, pursuing hobbies, getting enough sleep, eating healthily, and learning new things.
• More than 40% of respondents reported experiencing depression.
• Over a quarter of participants have had panic attacks.
• Mental health disparities are closely linked to household income and employment status. Nearly three-quarters of people in the lowest income bracket have experienced a mental health problem, compared to 60% in the highest income bracket.
• A significant majority (85%) of unemployed individuals have faced mental health challenges, compared to two-thirds of employed people and just over half of retirees.
• Nearly two-thirds (65%) of people have experienced a mental health problem, with this figure rising to 70% among women, young adults aged 18-34, and those living alone.

Conclusions

The current state of mental health is alarming. While we’ve made significant progress in physical health and life expectancy, our collective mental health is deteriorating. The survey indicates that most people have experienced a mental health problem at some point, with young adults reporting higher levels despite having had fewer years to experience these issues. This may reflect a growing ease in acknowledging mental health problems, but it also suggests an emerging crisis, potentially linked to increased uncertainties in work, relationships, and housing.

The data shows that poor mental health affects all demographics, but not equally. Women, young adults, low-income individuals, and those living alone or in large households are at a higher risk.

Ten Steps to Thrive

While some individuals and communities are more vulnerable to mental health challenges, no one is immune. Just as maintaining physical health is important, we must also prioritize mental health for ourselves and those around us. Here are ten steps to support and sustain good mental health:

1. Talk About Your Feelings: Sharing your feelings can help you stay mentally healthy and cope during difficult times. Talking about your emotions is not a sign of weakness but a way to take control of your well-being.
2. Keep Active: Regular exercise boosts self-esteem, concentration, sleep quality, and overall mental health. Physical activity doesn’t have to involve sports or the gym; walking, gardening, or housework can also keep you active.
3. Eat Well: Nutrition plays a crucial role in mental health. A balanced diet with a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, dairy, and oily fish can support brain health.
4. Drink Sensibly: While occasional light drinking is fine, alcohol should not be used to manage emotions. Its effects are temporary and can worsen your mood over time.
5. Keep in Touch: Strong relationships are essential for mental health. Connecting with friends and family can help you feel supported and cared for.
6. Ask for Help: If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope, seek help. Whether it’s from a GP, a mental health specialist, or a trusted person in your life, reaching out is important.
7. Take a Break: Changing your environment or pace can benefit your mental health. Whether it’s a short pause or a longer break, taking time to relax is crucial.
8. Do Something You’re Good At: Engaging in activities you enjoy can reduce stress and boost self-esteem. Pursuing hobbies or interests can also help distract you from worries.
9. Accept Who You Are: Embrace your uniqueness and focus on your strengths. Self-acceptance builds confidence and resilience.
10. Care for Others: Helping others can strengthen relationships and boost your self-worth. Volunteering or offering support can make you feel valued and needed.

Five Steps for a Mentally Thriving UK

While individuals can take steps to protect their mental health, governments at all levels also have a responsibility to promote and protect the mental well-being of their citizens. We call on the government to take the following actions:

1. National Thriving Mental Health Programme: Launch a program to raise public awareness about mental health and build community resilience. Schools, workplaces, and community groups should be involved in delivering this program.
2. Royal Commission on Mental Health: Establish a commission to investigate effective ways to prevent poor mental health and promote good mental health, drawing on global best practices.
3. Annual Mentally Thriving Nation Report: Governments should report annually on mental health trends, successes, and areas needing attention, fostering transparency and innovation.
4. ‘100% Health’ Check: Introduce regular mental health check-ins for everyone, providing self-management advice, peer support, and access to professional help if needed.
5. Fair Funding for Mental Health Research: Increase funding for mental health research to address the historic imbalance between mental and physical health research, focusing on prevention as well as treatment.