One in 10 Irish adults rate their own mental well being as ‘bad’ or ‘very bad.’
New research released today by laya healthcare to mark Mental Health Week has revealed the top 10 things that impact on our mental well being.
Standout stats from the findings include:
- 44% of Irish people say their mental well being is of real concern for them
- 11% claim everyday struggles to control their feelings
- 75% say stigma around anxiety is still a problem
- 42% of people experiencing anxiety feel they would be judged by work colleagues if they went public
- And 82% of people say the conversation around mental health in Ireland needs to change
Concerns about money and finance is the number one cause of anxiety in almost half of all Irish people, followed by poor sleep, being overweight and spending time on social media (20 per cent) all having a negative effect.
While one in 10 rate their own mental well being as ‘bad’ or ‘very bad.’
Counselling Psychologist, Dr Sarah O’Neill who is the clinical lead for laya healthcare’s 24/7 Mental Wellbeing Support Programme, said: “The findings really shine a light on the need to open up the conversation around mental wellbeing in Ireland and the supports available to people.
"Knowing and understanding what triggers feelings of anxiety can help prevent or manage it but also knowing there is help at hand is hugely important.”
The study also listed the top actives Irish people do to boost their mood:
- Exercise - 52%
- Listening to music - 49%
- Socialising with friends - 40%
- watching TV - 40%
- Reading - 39%
- Sex - 22%
- Mindfulness exercises - 12%
