Mental health illness, which includes depression and anxiety, is now the most common medical condition in the UK.
Research from Beneden Health found that more than 21 per cent of 25-34 year olds admitted they have suffered with their mental health in the past 2 years. This was slightly higher than over age groups, with 19 per cent of 16-24 year olds suffering poor mental health; 18 per cent of 35-44 year olds and 16 percent of 45-54 year olds.
But only one in 10 of those aged 55 or over reported mental health as one of their top conditions. In this age group arthritis was the most common disclosed medical condition (cited by 14 per cent of respondents) while 12 per cent cited high blood pressure.
Benenden Health says that the nation is facing a mental health crisis across all generations with the number of older people living with mental illness often unreported
According to the report there has been little progress in reducing the stigma associated with discussing mental health. Mental health illnesses are named the most common medical complaint not discussed with employers across every single generation. The report revealed that workers fear people thinking they wouldn’t be able to do their job, that they would be talked about and that ultimately it might cost them their employment.
Benenden Health Matron Cheryl Lythgoe said: “Exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic, the nation’s mental health is at a perilous point, with UK adults revealing it to now be the most common condition in the country and also the one medical complaint that they are most concerned about, with this far from restricted to younger generations.
“Throughout each generation, mental wellbeing needs to be a significant priority in order to stem this flow and we need to look at ensuring that everyone has the necessary – and tailored – support to suit their needs.
“If you are living with symptoms of poor mental health or are concerned about them developing, please do not be afraid to tell someone – whether this is someone you know or a medical professional – as you are far from alone and in doing so, you are taking the first step towards understanding the root cause of the illness and getting the necessary support.”