One in four people will experience a mental health problem at some point in their lives – and they may well be one of your friends, colleagues or family members.
But do you know what to do or say?
Mental health affects all of us – so we can all do something to help break down the stigma that surrounds it and help create a society where mental health problems are not hidden in shame and secrecy.
Many people who experience mental health problems are unsure what to do or where to turn, and many are afraid to talk about their problems.
Our Stigma Shout research showed that the overwhelming majority of people with mental health problems say the way in which family, friends, neighbours and colleagues behave around them can have a big impact on their lives.
Make sure you are helping by following our advice for friends and family.
If you’d like some support or more information, we’ve got lots of places you can go.
There are a lot of myths surrounding mental illness. And because of the myths it can feel like you don't know enough to be able to help. But you don't need to be an expert on mental health to be a friend. It's often the everyday things that make a difference.
Sometimes people feel uncomfortable with mental health problems and are frightened, as they don't know what to do. But doing nothing, or avoiding the issue can make things worse.
People with mental health problems can and do get back on their feet and lead fulfilling lives. This is even more likely with your help.
What you can do to help:
Be there to talk and listen.
It's often hard to tell someone about a mental health problem because of fear of people's reactions. So if someone talks to you, don't brush it off, acknowledge their problem and let them know you're there for them.
Make time to stay in touch. Call, visit or invite your friend round - carry on with whatever you normally do.
Ask the person how you can help - people will want support at different times in different ways.
Keep in mind that having a mental health problem is just one part of the person. People don't want to be defined by their mental health problem.
Think about the words you use. Words like nutter, crazy and psycho can hurt.
How common are mental health problems?
Mental health problems are a very common part of life – which is why this is such an important issue. We can all play a part in the fight to end mental health stigma and discrimination.
One in four people will experience a mental health problem at some point in their lives
At any given time one in six of us will be experiencing a mental health problem
Estimates vary, but research suggests that 20% of children have a mental health problem in any given year, and about 10% at any one time
Depression affects one in five older people living in the community and two in five living in care homes
The UK has one of the highest rates of self-harm in Europe at 400 per 100,000
450 million people across the world have a mental health problem
Around 8-12% of the population experience depression in any given year
For comprehensive information about specific mental health problems, please visit the information sections on the Mind and Rethink websites:
Mind - Information
Rethink - About mental illness
http://www.time-to-change.org.uk