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New campaign to tackle the negative impact shame has on people with mental illness

  • Area of Work: The ALLIANCE
  • Type: News Item
  • Published: 15th March 2024
A line of placards with a heart, a world, and upward arrow and a speech bubble.

Read more about See Me, Scotland's new programme to bring an end to mental health stigma and discrimination.

See Me, Scotland’s programme to end mental health stigma and discrimination, has launched a new campaign to tackle the negative impact that shame has on those living with a mental illness.

“It’s okay to not be okay” is one of the most famous lines in mental health campaigning, but for many people struggling with a complex and long-term mental illness, it doesn’t feel like it is okay.

The impact of feeling shame means many people hide a mental illness, even from those closest to them. This can stop them from getting the help and support they need, make people feel alone and lead to those living with a mental illness to withdraw from opportunities others may take for granted.

If It’s Okay campaign gives a voice to those who don’t feel like it’s okay and helps them to speak up about what they’ve gone through. It comes after new research revealed 60 per cent of Scots think there is still shame associated with mental illness.

See Me director Wendy Halliday said: “We want to show that if you are struggling, you shouldn’t have to feel shame, and if you know someone who is struggling, you have an important role in helping them not to feel shamed.

“By reflecting on our own attitudes and behaviours, we can develop self-awareness and play our part in preventing others from feeling shame.”

Follow the conversation on social media via #IfItsOkay.

For information about If Its Okay, including advice and information for anyone living with mental ill health, please visit the See Me website.

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