#BehindTheMask: We open up about our mental health during lockdown
Over a third of people in the East say they've felt the need to take time off due to their mental health during the pandemic.
We've lived through one of the most difficult and disrupted years in more than a generation, so it's no surprise it's had an impact on our physical, as well as mental, health.
New figures released for Time to Talk Day (4th Feb) show over a third of people in the East of England say they've felt the need to take time off due to their mental health during the pandemic - but only 9 per cent actually have.
We're all being encouraged to speak out about our mental health and know there are people there to support us.
New figures released show that mental health is still taboo when it comes to taking time out. A survey of over 4,700 people revealed that nearly half of us (44%) have felt the need to take time off work, school, or university due to a mental health problem during the pandemic.
Worryingly, despite so many recognising a need to take time out, only 17% actually did so.
When respondents were asked why they did not take time off, the answers pointed to mental health stigma: 27% said they were too embarrassed; 25% said they worried they would be judged; and 24% said they thought it would risk their future prospects, for instance losing their job.
When facing a mental health problem, support from friends, family and colleagues can make all the difference. However, whilst a significant number of people have struggled with their mental health, many have simultaneously seen their support networks shrink.
In the East of England, 1 in 5 (20%) said they have fewer people to talk too about problems such as mental health since the pandemic. The top reasons cited were not being able to talk to their household about problems; worrying about other people's problems; and not being able to meet to talk face-to-face.
Time to Talk Day 2021 adopts the theme 'The Power of Small', which aims to showcase the big difference these seemingly small conversations or gestures can make.
WATCH: Jo Loughran from Time To Talk Day speak to Mick Coyle about opening up about your feelings:
How to talk about mental health with a friend, colleague or family member:
To encourage supportive conversations about mental health, Time to Change has enlisted celebrity supporters - and their four-legged friends - to deliver helpful tips for anyone who wants to check in with a loved one on Time to Talk Day.
Ricky Wilson, Bev Callard, James McVey and Time to Change champions star in the light-hearted 'Ambassadogs' film, which includes the following tips.
Here are some tips about how to bring up mental health in every day conversation:
- Ask questions and listen; “How does it affect you?” or “What does it feel like?”
- Think about the time and place; sometimes it’s easier to talk side-by-side. Try chatting while doing something else, like walking.
- Don’t try and fix it; resist the urge to offer quick fixes, often listening is enough.
What is #BehindTheMask?
Over the next few weeks we're going to be going #BehindTheMask to discuss how we've coped emotionally through the pandemic.
We'll be sharing stories of those who've experienced it from different angles, backgrounds and locations to open up the conversation about mental health.
WATCH: NHS Dr Tushar Dixit opens up about his experiences for #BehindTheMask
Can I get involved in #BehindTheMask?
Of course. Share your feelings on social media, and use the hashtag #BehindTheMask so you can see other people sharing their stories.
Some people are comfortable sharing a video, others will prefer text, emojis or a gif.
If you want to film a video, film in landscape selfie mode. If you want to remove your mask at the start before you introduce yourself, ensure you're in a safe space, following all safety guidelines.
Where can I get more support for my mental health?
Speak to your GP - they are trained to recognise mental health issues, just as they are physical.
Find mental health services where you are by visiting the Hub of Hope.
Find out more about Time To Talk Day and access their resources here.