Mental Health Foundation reveals shocking statistics

Sponsored feature: Therapist Melissa Martyn reviews the results of the Mental Health Foundation’s 2018 study which was an online poll undertaken by YouGov, and had a sample size of 4,619 respondents. This is the largest known study of stress levels in the UK.

“In the past year, 74% of people have felt so stressed they have been overwhelmed or unable to cope,” says Melissa. “Our modern way of life is stressful and we don’t always cope because...well we’re human.

“The statistics from the Mental Health Foundation’s report show the enormity of the problem:

• 46% reported that they ate too much or ate unhealthily due to stress. 29% reported that they started drinking or increased their drinking, and 16% reported that they started smoking or increased their smoking.

• 51% of adults who felt stressed reported feeling depressed, and 61% reported feeling anxious.

• Of the people who said they had felt stress at some point in their lives, 16% had self-harmed and 32% said they had had suicidal thoughts and feelings.

• 37% of adults who reported feeling stressed reported feeling lonely as a result.

“If you feel that you are not coping there is no need to try to do so alone. Often talking to someone is the first step to recovery. No one approach fits all but there are many positive steps you can take to help.

“We run tailor made retreat days in France (individual and group) where you can explore positive ways forward.”

If you want to know more you can email Melissa at melissa.dev.21@gmail.com, visit the website http://melissamartyn.therapist.fr/index.htmor view The Mind Retreat on Facebook.