Mind over matter - why some people do not access mental health support or services in Salford

Healthwatch Salford undertook a project to understand the barriers to people using mental health services as part of a project to look at adult mental health. They spoke to 272 people via a survey and focus groups.

Across the different backgrounds and characteristics, people seemed to lack the trust and confidence in mental health professionals and would prefer to see more representation from people who reflect their particular backgrounds or beliefs.

There was a concern from people about the possibility of being administered medication with its side effects, backed up by myths and misinformation from others in their communities of becoming dependent on this medication. Community groups and faith based organisations were talked about as strong pillars of support for the communities they served and there was an appetite to expand upon this.

Healthwatch Salford heard how people wanted to have more knowledge and understanding of mental health support services, and for it to be presented to them in a way that was easy to read and representative of our diverse communities.

Overall, people feel that societal attitudes towards mental health seem to be more accepting and that there was a general willingness to understand and support others more. However, across the different marginalised groups, the topic of stigma and how people would be perceived by their peers was a common thread, with many commenting on how this alone can be the first hurdle that needs to be overcome before someone can seek support.

The report concludes with three recommendations to commissioners about staff being more culturally aware, the need for diverse communications and working with groups to help them understand mental health.