I am so pleased that the BBC put together a series of films looking at a wide range of mental health issues affecting young people in Britain today. 1 in 4 of us will, at some point, develop a mental health problem and it's a subject area that has been neglected in the past.
Don't Call Me Crazy
The series started with a documentary called Don't call me Crazy. Film crews were given permission to enter one of the largest teenage mental health units in the country; inpatients like these are often a place of last resort for young people with depression, psychosis, OCD or eating disorders. It's amazing to see that the BBC are highlighting just how mental illness can damage lives and how getting the right help can change lives. However, I cannot help but question the ethics behind this documentary. The young people who were filmed were obviously extremely distressed and yes it's absolutely admirable that they want to share their story to raise awareness although I don't know whether filming patients who were acutely unwell was a good idea. Nonetheless, the documentary was an accurate portrayal of what life is like in an inpatient unit. Having been admitted to a similar unit when I was 18 years old, watching this did bring back a lot of very difficult memories but this is the reality of what many people who are suffering from a mental illness face. I hope all the participants face their demons so they are able to live a happy, healthy life; free from the mental illness that has robbed them of their happiness.
Football's Suicide Secret
Clarke Carlisle investigated the dark side of professional sport: depression, addiction and suicide. In April 2012 a promising young football player jumped to his death from a 120ft high viaduct after racking up gambling debts. Having lost a friend to suicide, I did shed a few tears whilst watching this documentary. Anyone can suffer from a mental illness; mental illness doesn't discriminate. You can become victim to the illness at any stage in your life, regardless of your social-economic background or occupation. Money does not buy happiness. Depression can be a devastating illness, not only for the sufferer but for their family and friends. I can only hope that people who have taken their lives are at peace and free from such a terrible, terrible condition.
Diaries of a Broken Mind
Using handheld cameras, 20 extraordinary young people with a range of health disorders from OCD to schizophrenia showed us what life is really like as they navigate the rocky road into adulthood. I thought this was an excellent portrayal of mental illness. I really liked the fact that the programme showed the "not so well known" types of mental illness. The young people who took part were extremely brave for sharing their story publically and I hope they all get the help and support they deserve to fight their illnesses.
Rachel Bruno: My Dad and Me
26-year-old Rachel is the daughter of Frank Bruno, the ex-heavyweight boxing champion who is one of Britain’s most famous sufferers of bipolar affective disorder. In this personal documentary, Rachel set out to discover the truth about her dad's illness, and ultimately whether she is at risk of developing it too. Bipolar disorder, previously known as manic depression, is a condition that affects your moods, which can swing from one extreme to another. Not much is known about Bipolar and it was admirable to see Rachel Bruno speak about her Dad's illness and the affect it has had upon the family. Mental illness does not just affect the sufferer, it has a great impact on their family and friends and they have to remember that it's okay for them to ask for support. Supporting someone with a mental illness can be a draining, distressing and upsetting experience and there are people out there who can help you.
Failed by the NHS
26-year-old Jonny Benjamin, who has schizophrenia and depression, investigates why many young people with mental illness are failing to get the right treatment from the NHS. My first impression was just how brave Jonny has been to share his story; along with the other participants. It broke my heart so watch the family of someone who took their life speak about their son's depression and how things could have been different if he received help sooner; this is sadly too common. The NHS mental health services are drastically under funded and under staffed and this is having devastating consequences on those suffering. It is important to remember that the NHS also provide excellent care and I am not afraid to admit that the NHS Eating Disorder Service's have saved my life. Yes there needs to be improvements, although I think we need to also remember just how much the NHS have helped individual's to turn their lives around.
Information and Support
If you, or someone you know, have been affected by the issues raised in this season, the following organisations can help:
Schizophrenia
Mind is a leading mental health charity in England and Wales. It provides advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. The charity campaigns to improve services, raise awareness and promote understanding. The Mind infoline provides information on a range of topics including types of mental distress, where to get help, drug and alternative treatments and advocacy. They are also able to provide details of local help and support. Contact them by phone on 0300 123 3393 between 9am and 6pm, Monday to Friday www.mind.org.uk
YoungMinds is committed to improving the emotional wellbeing and mental health of children and young people. Visit www.youngminds.org.uk for information, support and advice. Concerned parents can also call the Parents' Helpline on 0808 802 5544 (Monday to Friday between 9.30am and 4pm).
Rethink Mental Illness is a charity that believes a better life is possible for millions of people affected by mental illness. They can provide practical advice and information about issues such as therapy and medication, benefits, debt, criminal justice and your rights under the Mental Health Act, as well as operating support groups across England. For advice and support call the Rethink Information and Advice Line on 0300 5000 927 (Monday to Friday from 10am to 1pm) or go online to www.rethink.org
Mental Health Foundation is a leading UK mental health research, policy and service improvement charity. They are committed to reducing the suffering caused by mental ill health and to help everyone lead mentally healthier lives. They help people to survive, recover from and prevent mental health problems. Visit www.mentalhealth.org.uk
SANE provides emotional support and information to anyone affected by mental illness. Their services are completely confidential and whatever your problems or concerns, you will receive non-judgemental emotional support. There are 3 main ways to reach them:
Helpline: 0845 767 8000 (available 6pm – 11pm every day)
Email or Support Forum
Website: www.sane.org.uk
SAMH (the Scottish Association for Mental Health) exists to provide help, information and support; to campaign on behalf of people with mental health problems and to raise money to fund their vital work.
SAMH operates an information service from Monday to Friday between the hours of 2pm and 4pm. Information service staff and volunteers can answer general mental health enquiries, advise you on your rights and signpost you to your local services.
SAMH National Information Service: 0800 917 3466
www.samh.org.uk/
Niamh Mental Wellbeing (Northern Ireland Association for Mental Health) provides local services to support the mental health and wellbeing of people across Northern Ireland. Through Beacon, they provide day, housing and advocacy support for anyone with experience of mental illness as well as support groups and learning programmes. Through Carecall they provide access to counselling and psychological therapies as well as mental health and wellbeing programmes, mainly in the workplace, colleges and higher education. Contact them by phone on 028 9032 8474 or go online to www.niamhwellbeing.org
Community Advice & Listening Line offers emotional support and information/literature on mental health and related matters to the people of Wales. Anyone concerned about their own mental health or that of a relative or friend can access the service. The C.A.L.L. Helpline offers a confidential listening and support service on Freephone 0800 132 737. Alternatively, you can text the word "help" to 81066, or find out more online at www.callhelpline.org.uk
Anxiety
No Panic is a voluntary charity, providing support to sufferers of Panic Attacks, Anxiety Disorders, Phobias and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Contact their help line on 0800 138 8889, 10am to 10pm everyday or log onto nopanic.org.uk
Anxiety UK works to relieve and support those living with anxiety disorders by providing information, support and understanding via an extensive range of services. Contact them by phone on 08444 755 774 or visit www.anxietyuk.org.uk
Anxiety Alliance is run by former anxiety sufferers, so they fully understand the physical feelings and negative emotions that sufferers experience. Through their helpline they can offer confidential and impartial advice and support. Factsheets, self-help booklets, relaxation tapes and CDs are also available to members. You can contact the helpline on 0845 296 7877, every day of the week (including weekends) between 10am and 10pm or log onto www.anxietyalliance.org.uk for more information.
Bipolar
Bipolar UK is a national charity dedicated to supporting individuals with the much misunderstood and devastating condition of bipolar, their families and carers. Contact them by phone on 020 7931 6480, by emailing info@bipolaruk.org.uk or visit www.bipolaruk.org.uk
Bipolar Scotland provides information, support and advice for people affected by bipolar disorder and all who care. Contact them by phone on 0141 560 2050, or log onto www.bipolarscotland.org.uk
Mind is a leading mental health charity in England and Wales. It provides advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. The charity campaigns to improve services, raise awareness and promote understanding. The Mind infoline provides information on a range of topics including types of mental distress, where to get help, drug and alternative treatments and advocacy. They are also able to provide details of local help and support. Contact them by phone on 0300 123 3393 between 9am and 6pm, Monday to Friday.
www.mind.org.uk
Depression
Action on Depression work in Scotland to provide information and support services to those affected by the condition. To mark Depression Awareness week they have launched a new campaign entitled “Never Judge a Book...” to challenge existing stereotypes about the illness.
Further information on how Action on Depression can help you can be obtained by visiting www.actionondepression.org or by emailing info@actionondepression.org
FamilyLine’s free confidential helpline can support you if you are experiencing issues concerning depression or mental health. We will listen to your worries and concerns while you talk through them in confidence. Our helpline is open 0900 to 1700 Monday to Friday 0808 800 5678 or email us at: help@familyline.org.uk
Community Advice & Listening Line offers emotional support and information/literature on mental health and related matters to the people of Wales. Anyone concerned about their own mental health or that of a relative or friend can access the service. The C.A.L.L. Helpline offers a confidential listening and support service on Freephone 0800 132 737. Alternatively, you can text the word "help" to 81066, or find out more online at http://www.callhelpline.org.uk
Breathing Space is a free, confidential phone and web based service for people in Scotland experiencing low mood, depression or anxiety. They are there in times of difficulty to provide a safe and supportive space by listening, offering advice and information.
If you think you need Breathing Space call 0800 83 85 87 (from 6pm til 2am Monday to Thursday and 24 hours at the weekend), or go online to www.breathingspacescotland.co.uk A BSL service is also available via the website.
Depression Alliance works specifically with people who experience depression and anxiety. They provide support and understanding to those who are affected, including friends and family of sufferers. They operate a national network of self-help groups, an online support forum and publish a quarterly magazine to ensure that nobody suffers alone. They also campaign to raise awareness and reduce stigma about depression.
Information pack request line: 0845 123 23 20
Email: information@depressionalliance.org
www.depressionalliance.org
Eating Disorders
Beat is a national charity providing information, help and support for people with eating disorders and their families Beat provides helplines for adults and young people, online support and a UK-wide network of self-help groups to help people beat their eating disorder. Contact them by phone on 0845 634 1414, Monday to Friday between 10:30am and 8:30pm and on Saturdays between 1pm and 4:30pm, or the Youth Helpline, up to the age of 18 on 0845 634 7650, Monday to Friday between 4:30pm and 8:30pm and Saturdays between 1pm and 4:30pm, or log onto www.b-eat.co.uk There is also a text service on 07786 201820.
Anorexia and Bulimia Care (ABC) provides personal advice and support to anyone affected by anorexia, bulimia, binge eating and all kinds of eating distress. They support sufferers and their family and friends towards full recovery. Contact the Helpline on 03000 11 12 13 (Parent Helpline: Option1; Sufferer Helpline: OPtion 2) or log onto www.anorexiabulimiacare.org.uk
The National Centre for Eating Disorders aims to treat compulsive eating, anorexia, bulimia and weight problems by means of support, prevention and training. Contact them by phone on 0845 838 2040, or go online to www.eating-disorders.org.uk
Family support
Action against Medical Accidents (AVMA) is an independent charity which promotes better patient safety and justice for people who have been affected by a medical accident. A 'medical accident' is where avoidable harm has been caused in any form of healthcare as a result of treatment or failure to treat appropriately. They provide free and confidential medico-legal advice and support including help with inquests. Contact their helpline on 0845 123 2352, or visit www.avma.org.uk
Citizens Advice Bureau can provide information on making a complaint about NHS treatment using the NHS complaints procedure. For more information visit: www.adviceguide.org.uk/england/healthcare
Or in Scotland www.adviceguide.org.uk/scotland/healthcare
The Patients Association is a national charity providing patients with an opportunity to raise concerns and share experiences of healthcare.
Phone: 0845 6084455
www.patients-association.org.uk
The General Medical Council registers doctors to practise medicine in the UK. Their purpose is to protect, promote and maintain the health and safety of the public by ensuring proper standards in the practice of medicine.
Phone: 0161 923 6602
www.gmc-uk.org
OCD
OCD Action is a national charity for people with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and related disorders. OCD Action exists to provide information, advice and support for people with OCD, plus their families, friends, carers and interested professionals. Contact their support and information helpline on 0845 390 6232, or log onto www.ocdaction.org.uk
OCD-UK is a service user led charity, independently working with and for almost one million children and adults whose lives are affected by Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Their vision is one of a society where everyone affected by Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder should receive the most appropriate, and the highest quality standards of care, support and treatment. For more information, visit www.ocduk.org
Personality Disorder
Emergence is a service user-led organisation supporting all people affected by personality disorder including service users, carers, family and friends and professionals. Visit www.emergenceplus.org.uk
Suicide
If you’re a young person and you’re considering suicide, or you feel depressed or like you’re not coping with life, HOPELineUK, provided by the organisation PAPYRUS, is a confidential helpline service staffed by trained professionals who can give support, practical advice and information. You can call the helpline on 0800 068 41 41, email pat@papyrus-uk.org or text 07786 209 697. Lines are open Monday to Friday from 10am until 5pm and again from 7pm until 10pm, and between 2pm until 5pm at the weekend. PAPYRUS can also offer help and advice if you’re concerned about someone you know.
You’ll also find them online at http://www.papyrus-uk.org
CALM, the campaign against living miserably is a charity aimed at preventing male suicide in the UK. For information and support, visit www.thecalmzone.net, or call their helpline on 0800 58 58 58 between 5pm and midnight seven days a week. Calls are anonymous, confidential, free from a landline and will not appear on itemised bills.
Samaritans is available for anyone struggling to cope round the clock, every single day of the year. They provide a safe place to talk where calls are completely confidential. Call 08457 90 90 90 or visit www.samaritans.org
Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide exists to meet the needs and break the isolation of those bereaved by the suicide of a close relative or friend. Contact them by phone on 0844 561 6855, 9am to 9pm every day, or log onto http://www.callhelpline.org.uk
Cruse Bereavement Care exists to promote the well-being of bereaved people and to enable anyone bereaved by death to understand their grief and cope with their loss. They can be contacted on 0844 477 9400 Mon to Fri 9:30 – 5pm, or log onto www.cruse.org.uk
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