We respond to the Interim Report from the UK government's independent review into mental health conditions, ADHD and autism
Location: England
The Mental Health Foundation welcomes findings from the interim report from the UK government’s independent review into the prevalence of poor mental health.
Responding to the interim report, Alexa Knight, Director of Policy and Influencing at the Mental Health Foundation, said:
“The rise in psychological distress found by the review represents one of the greatest crises the country faces. We welcome that this review has clearly identified that psychological distress and suffering has been on the increase in England, especially among young people. This is a vitally important starting point and makes the case for a bold, prevention-first approach that matches the scale of the challenge.
“We also welcome the recognition that mental health is shaped in our homes, schools and workplaces, and that action in these settings is a crucial part of addressing this crisis. With long waiting times and an already over-stretched NHS, a public health response is long overdue.
“We agree that awareness efforts should empower people to make use of a range of support before clinical support is required, ensuring that those with more acute mental health needs get timely and effective support.
“Finally, it is positive the review places emphasis on shifting to a model that responds to people’s needs, rather than one that is overly dependent on diagnosis to unlock support. This should mean appropriate support can be offered across the spectrum of distress, rather than dividing people into deserving or undeserving or waiting until issues become more acute.
“We hope this review leads to bold action across society. This is the time for prevention of mental health problems to be prioritised and invested in to reduce mental health harms and empower people across the country to live with better mental health."