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NHS staff 'may not be comfortable admitting problems'

5th March 2010

Nurses

Individuals working for the NHS may find it difficult to admit they are experiencing mental health problems due to the stigma attached to illnesses of this kind.

This is the suggestion of Dr Ian McPherson, director of the National Mental Health Development Unit, who stated that many may feel that this excludes them from the workforce.

He remarked: "As in every organisation, people working at all levels in the NHS experience mental health problems but rarely have felt able to be open about this."

According to Dr McPherson, this places "additional pressure" on people and reinforces stereotypical views that having a psychological condition prevents personnel from doing their job effectively.

His comments come following the launch of NHS Employer's Open Your Mind campaign, an initiative he and his organisation noted they are "delighted" to support.

In December, the NHS unveiled a new telephone helpline to give advice and guidance for those feeling stressed or depressed due to financial concerns or unemployment.ADNFCR-1716-ID-19653678-ADNFCR