Comments
It's Mind week - Get it off your Chest with me and Stephen Fry
2009-05-11 06:29:15
I have no idea how days and weeks come to be such and such Day and such and such Week, but I do know that today sees the start of Mind week. I know because I am on my way to the BBC to talk it up on Radio 5 (0745) and Breakfast TV (0810) and in particular to help launch the charity's campaign focussed on men and mental health.
From there to the launch proper with Stephen Fry, Melvyn Bragg, actor Joe McGann and DJ Matt Wilkinson. I know from my work with Leukaemia Research that the recession is having a financial impact on charities. And I know from my work with them and with Rethink that charities sometimes get irritated that they can only get coverage for their cause if a few well-known faces are attached. And even then, it is hard if the media are obsessed with something else at the time, currently MPs' expenses.
Anyway we will give it a go and try to get over some of the basic messages behind Mind's 'Get it off your Chest' campaign. At the launch we will be erecting a temporary wall in central London where members of the public will be encouraged to write something about their stresses, worries and fears.
Here is a horrible fact for you. Suicide is the biggest killer of men aged 15-35. Here are another two facts. Men are just as likely to suffer depression as women. But half as likely to be diagnosed. It is the old 'suffer in silence' 'stiff upper lip' 'big boys don't cry' approach. Men are far more likely than women to see mental distress as a sign of weakness, and so are less likely to want to talk about it.
Mind are in no doubt it is an attitude linked directly to that suicide statistic. Three quarters of suicides in Britain are by men. The recession makes things worse. Two-thirds of young men who take their own lives are unemployed. One in seven men develop depression within six months of losing a job. Only 23 per cent of men say they would see their GP if they felt low for over a fortnight. A third say they would be embarrassed to ask for help.
Health Secretary Alan Johnson has a real commitment in the area of mental health (not to mention a clean bill of health on expenses) and the government record is a good one. Most recently he has been encouraging PCTs to use 80 million pounds on mental health and the recession this year. It is likely to be needed.
Mind are calling on the government to bring in a strategy on men's mental health, to match the existing women's mental health strategy. That too is needed. As I have said here before, one in four of us will suffer a mental health problem at some time in our lives. I know from experience how important professional help can be. Equally I know how hard it is to admit you need it.
I hope Mind week encourages more people who need help to ask for it, and a continuing breakdown in the stigma and shame surrounding mental illness. # More details of Mind week, including a new survey on some of these issues at www.mind.org.uk Media inquiries to media@mind.org.uk or 07850788514.
And as it's Mind week, I've put up part one of the documentary I made with the BBC, Cracking Up. The other three parts will be coming over the coming days.
Archive
Capello and Rooney interviews the highlights of France/Uruguay coveragePublish date: 2010-06-12 09:51:57
Even at Queen's, I'm thinking big ideas for George and DannyPublish date: 2010-06-11 19:53:22
Helping George and Danny with cuts: Part 2Publish date: 2010-06-10 14:06:12
My part in the cuts consultation: Part 1: end charitable status for private schoolsPublish date: 2010-06-09 12:09:25
Cameron using Libs to do what he wanted to do all alongPublish date: 2010-06-08 11:07:03
In praise of Margaret Beckett and Malcolm TuckerPublish date: 2010-06-07 12:28:46
An everyday tale of modern journalism, plus All-Time Premier League teamPublish date: 2010-06-06 11:45:22
Making Hay while the sun shinesPublish date: 2010-06-05 11:12:03
Cameron right to go to CumbriaPublish date: 2010-06-04 14:32:34
All alone in my own BBC studioPublish date: 2010-06-03 14:52:39
Return to dialogue of the deaf is lasting damagePublish date: 2010-06-02 10:23:12
And the winner is ...Publish date: 2010-06-01 10:43:35
ConDem sense of humour bypass never happened under LabourPublish date: 2010-05-31 14:07:49
Cameron/Clegg will be regretting their expenses sanctimoniousnessPublish date: 2010-05-30 10:38:16
I fear Laws will be victim of Cameron ruthless streakPublish date: 2010-05-29 11:40:59
Thanks to the Con-Dems for making Question Time such funPublish date: 2010-05-28 02:01:03
Osborne has Lib Dems pretty much where he wants themPublish date: 2010-05-24 11:50:59
Time to Change Street-Porter's silly but prejudice-reinforcing views on depressionPublish date: 2010-05-21 12:19:18
Thumbs up for Wenlock and MandevillePublish date: 2010-05-20 10:11:10
Humourless Laws facing both ways with ease. And where is Nick Clegg?Publish date: 2010-05-18 10:17:24
Why I love the NHS even more than everPublish date: 2010-05-17 18:05:11
A bit of ENT on the NHSPublish date: 2010-05-17 11:06:17
Charles Kennedy speaks for many Lib DemsPublish date: 2010-05-16 14:18:11
Italian interview on Dick Clamberon, TB, GB, Murdoch inter aliaPublish date: 2010-05-15 13:45:54
Lib Dem desertions coming thick and fast. Business not impressed with ClameronPublish date: 2010-05-14 11:21:41
As Dick Clameron love-in begins, brilliant Martin Argles photos more powerful than wordsPublish date: 2010-05-13 12:39:17
Random House announce publication plans of AC diariesPublish date: 2010-05-12 17:23:12
Fight to get Labour back in starts nowPublish date: 2010-05-12 10:18:21
What's changed and what hasn't after yesterday?Publish date: 2010-05-11 08:29:25
In the circs, Labour's campaign was superbPublish date: 2010-05-08 11:12:25
Cameron as Obama - you have to laugh - then vote LabourPublish date: 2010-05-06 16:00:36
He has his faults, but my God you have to admire GB depth and resiliencePublish date: 2010-05-05 11:04:45
Big Society no laughing matter - but enjoy the film!Publish date: 2010-05-04 09:34:04
GB at his best at Citizens UK, fired with passion and convictionPublish date: 2010-05-03 18:40:35
Polls show race wide open. Tax credits massive issue with womenPublish date: 2010-05-03 11:38:46
Cameron has media stitched up, but public still doubtfulPublish date: 2010-05-02 11:36:33
Clegg poem gives foretaste of Tory/Lib coalitionPublish date: 2010-05-01 18:34:02
TV debate polls not what they seemPublish date: 2010-05-01 09:20:27
All still to play for. GB won. DC not answering. NC on wanePublish date: 2010-04-30 11:02:03
After all the fuss of yesterday, it is still the economy, stupidPublish date: 2010-04-29 17:00:44
GB mortified at bigot comment. Visit was human not politicalPublish date: 2010-04-28 16:56:13
All returning to roots as decison day loomsPublish date: 2010-04-28 12:46:55
Eton fags not the only ones looking forward to life under DavePublish date: 2010-04-27 15:47:36
Guest blog from a candidate in Tory-Lib council landPublish date: 2010-04-27 09:16:11
Only one leader talking policy today amid confused Tory tacticsPublish date: 2010-04-26 19:27:54
Clegg over-reach and cuddle up to Cameron both mistakesPublish date: 2010-04-26 11:41:32
Exposed: Tories and Lib Dems desperate to avoid policy debatePublish date: 2010-04-25 15:22:21
On Elvis, soft Lib Dems, Tory unfairness and silly Labour briefingsPublish date: 2010-04-25 09:06:16
Feeding defeat talk waste of time. Fight to winPublish date: 2010-04-24 10:19:02
Even their own polls say GB did better than they're sayingPublish date: 2010-04-23 15:42:51
Now let's have less process more policyPublish date: 2010-04-23 10:03:27
Press Clegg-bashing not helping Cameron. Debate should be on policyPublish date: 2010-04-22 12:33:25
Clegg's debate strategy hardly new honest politicsPublish date: 2010-04-21 12:48:09
More policy on the telly pleasePublish date: 2010-04-20 19:03:23
As Cameron revises body language, focus should be Lib Dem policyPublish date: 2010-04-20 10:25:50
Cameron junks broadcast - is he morphing into John Major?Publish date: 2010-04-19 14:56:02
Come on Dave and Nick - stop the carpingPublish date: 2010-04-19 09:49:59
A friendly letter to David CameronPublish date: 2010-04-18 10:24:08
Clegg rise good news for the campaignPublish date: 2010-04-17 10:02:47
The election landscape has changed. Exciting timesPublish date: 2010-04-16 14:45:39
Clegg wins on style, Brown on substance, Cameron on shallownessPublish date: 2010-04-16 01:32:41
Bring on the big debate. And don't miss Eddie Izzard tomorrowPublish date: 2010-04-15 18:58:37
Cameron's preference for process over policy in pre debate blatherPublish date: 2010-04-14 15:59:32
Black hole plus DIY public services - Cameron's second manifestoPublish date: 2010-04-13 10:37:52
Never mind 5 more years of GB. It's three more weeks of DC people worry aboutPublish date: 2010-04-12 11:16:02
Ashdown spot on about Tories' Sarah Palin momentPublish date: 2010-04-11 12:10:44
London Marathon the best of BritishPublish date: 2010-04-10 12:37:42
Pressure needs to be kept on Tories over NICsPublish date: 2010-04-09 13:15:17
Tories wrong on recession wrong on recoveryPublish date: 2010-04-08 11:47:59
Cameron's deception goes beyond the businessmenPublish date: 2010-04-07 19:55:22
Labour's greater scope for positive campaignPublish date: 2010-04-06 13:14:53
Cameron uncut - message matters more than moneyPublish date: 2010-04-05 11:33:17
Key election questions remain the same and the answer is still LabourPublish date: 2010-04-04 17:43:56
Osborne should heed his own wordsPublish date: 2010-04-03 16:01:39
The 25th HourPublish date: 2010-04-02 11:13:31
Hardly surprising if business prefers tax cut to wastePublish date: 2010-04-01 11:43:48
Tories really ought to listen to TB and Mr KaletskyPublish date: 2010-03-31 09:59:37
TB's return to fray a reminder of Cameron strategy failurePublish date: 2010-03-30 10:44:34
A chance to design Labour's next posterPublish date: 2010-03-29 09:47:29
Right pledges, at the right timePublish date: 2010-03-27 11:32:06
Can't wait to hear what George's tax wheeze isPublish date: 2010-03-26 14:55:00
Darling credible, Mandy exciting, Tories panicking over adsPublish date: 2010-03-25 11:21:25
Today is all about credibilityPublish date: 2010-03-24 09:38:11
Obama's win good news for politics everywherePublish date: 2010-03-23 10:11:13
I take my hat off to a genius brieferPublish date: 2010-03-22 17:21:23
With Hague disabled, Labour team v Tory team even more importantPublish date: 2010-03-19 11:43:25
Tory lack of clarity gets candidates jitteringPublish date: 2010-03-18 10:12:25
Is Kate Winslet's split more important than Michael Foot's funeral?Publish date: 2010-03-17 11:38:52
Why Sir Trevor did no favours for CameronPublish date: 2010-03-16 10:57:18
Support the Street Kids World CupPublish date: 2010-03-15 11:25:17
Bumping into Peter M on the fundraising campaign trailPublish date: 2010-03-14 00:27:35
Adonis shows the way on transport, and debatesPublish date: 2010-03-12 12:22:05
The record needs a better hearing - Labour and ToryPublish date: 2010-03-11 08:50:51
What happened to the detoxification of the Tory brand?Publish date: 2010-03-06 12:00:38
Support, activism and hope returning to LabourPublish date: 2010-03-05 09:46:34
Happy Birthday Lord Ashcroft HB2UPublish date: 2010-03-04 10:59:48
Michael Foot ... above all else a lovely manPublish date: 2010-03-03 14:22:46
Elvis support for Labour lifts the mood furtherPublish date: 2010-03-03 10:16:30
Hoovergate - the rebuttal amid hope of Labour winPublish date: 2010-03-02 13:00:35
At least Britney knows what she is singing aboutPublish date: 2010-03-01 10:57:28
News blackout on Olympian success storyPublish date: 2010-02-28 14:52:49
Kseniya Simonova's got talentPublish date: 2010-02-27 21:14:58
Debate expectations in a good place for GB and CleggPublish date: 2010-02-26 10:21:53
We all agree - Carlisle is cleverer than DCPublish date: 2010-02-25 11:59:11
On News International phone-hacking and CameronPublish date: 2010-02-24 09:40:08
GB, temper or not, a better leader for Britain than DCPublish date: 2010-02-23 10:24:48
Cameron inquiry call says more about him than GBPublish date: 2010-02-22 15:15:59
Some great stuff in The Observer todayPublish date: 2010-02-21 11:00:46
Game definitely on. If polls narrow more, Tory jitters set inPublish date: 2010-02-20 14:35:40
Cameron so right about pigs in pokesPublish date: 2010-02-19 09:12:50
How twitter is changing balance of power in film indsutryPublish date: 2010-02-18 12:00:19
Thanks for the thanks. Is online shopping not always like this?Publish date: 2010-02-17 10:44:30
There'll be another New Big Idea along in a momentPublish date: 2010-02-16 09:53:22
People may listen more to the political GB having heard the personal GBPublish date: 2010-02-15 13:11:57
Happy Valentine's Day. My present to you is Jacques BrelPublish date: 2010-02-14 12:06:54
A celeb fest in my weekend of culturePublish date: 2010-02-13 10:38:58
Alan Johnson right to stand up for security servicesPublish date: 2010-02-12 14:27:56
Time to turn up volume on sport schools revolutionPublish date: 2010-02-11 10:17:54
Let's give Cameron a Doris Day moment over AshcroftPublish date: 2010-02-10 10:29:05
Time for Maya's voice to be heard amid the non-tearsPublish date: 2010-02-09 09:04:22
Marr needs to explain his 'sexed up' question re casualtiesPublish date: 2010-02-08 13:55:36
On GB's tears with Piers, and my emotional moment with MarrPublish date: 2010-02-07 16:04:56
On NI, Tory fears of Labour spinsters, and headbands in sportPublish date: 2010-02-06 10:00:25
Daily Mail tells truth shock horrorPublish date: 2010-02-05 08:54:36
Welcome to the virtual Maya launch partyPublish date: 2010-02-04 10:38:44
Public ahead of press on the mess that is CameronPublish date: 2010-02-03 13:52:26
Cameron winning on media support but losing on leadershipPublish date: 2010-02-02 10:47:50
Buy The Blair Years and raise cash for LabourPublish date: 2010-02-01 09:00:00
A lesson in campaign mindset from young Labour studentsPublish date: 2010-01-31 13:14:19
Media tweets show the real agendaPublish date: 2010-01-29 21:18:59
TB made a judgement, and is defending it wellPublish date: 2010-01-29 14:04:38
On inequality, special advisers, Ireland, and TB/IraqPublish date: 2010-01-28 13:45:08
Message machine Mandelson on form todayPublish date: 2010-01-27 12:15:42
Only one place to be tonightPublish date: 2010-01-26 09:20:26
Cameron and tweeting ought to be natural fitPublish date: 2010-01-25 11:55:58
Big bucks campaigning not what it's cracked out to bePublish date: 2010-01-24 10:28:57
A life in unemployment statisticsPublish date: 2010-01-22 09:39:21
Learning the wrong Iraq lessons for Afghan warPublish date: 2010-01-21 10:24:46
Denis MacShane MP on the rewriting of history re Iraq warPublish date: 2010-01-20 10:44:07
Darling v Gove, Osborne and help the rich squad is No ContestPublish date: 2010-01-19 10:12:27
Dacre's DownfallPublish date: 2010-01-18 03:30:21
Rebutting the good and the bad, and support from football fansPublish date: 2010-01-17 12:45:38
Mandela is a great man, Invictus a great filmPublish date: 2010-01-16 08:54:48
Is Paul Dacre hiding a guilty secret that explains his deranged paper?Publish date: 2010-01-15 09:56:24
What's the real fight to be had?Publish date: 2010-01-14 10:20:20
On Owen Coyle and Brian LawsPublish date: 2010-01-13 18:27:58
Thanks to friend and foe alike for helping yesterday go byPublish date: 2010-01-13 08:49:25
So far so good in campaign to remove discriminatory lawPublish date: 2010-01-11 09:48:15
Thanks to Will Hutton for talking sense on 'class war'Publish date: 2010-01-10 12:56:48
In defence of airbrushed postersPublish date: 2010-01-09 16:45:29
Fire is always best turned on the ToriesPublish date: 2010-01-07 15:41:19
On Hoon-Hewitt and John PrescottPublish date: 2010-01-07 00:55:10
Sad and baffled to see Coyle goPublish date: 2010-01-05 16:26:05
Cameron's wobble the product of his team saying what their audiences want to hearPublish date: 2010-01-05 10:50:58
New Tory slogan - if you've got the cash, splash it on crap adsPublish date: 2010-01-02 12:11:18
And the musicians of the decade were ... The Beatles and The KingPublish date: 2009-12-31 18:52:25
Prepare for avalanche of Ashcroft posters for ToriesPublish date: 2009-12-30 15:06:06
Here's Good Luck to you, Mrs RobinsonPublish date: 2009-12-29 12:22:42
One man's White Christmas joy is another's football disasterPublish date: 2009-12-24 13:36:05
My favourite fact of the day - a French decimal time systemPublish date: 2009-12-23 16:48:00
A few crisis management tips for EurostarPublish date: 2009-12-22 11:49:35
Do we need same approach to booze as smoking?Publish date: 2009-12-19 09:13:28
Prepare for tears, tantrums and an imperfect but miraculous Copenhagen conclusionPublish date: 2009-12-18 10:23:03
London 2012 and Copenhagen today ... different approaches to tight deadlinesPublish date: 2009-12-16 11:13:21
Tiger cut off at the knees. I bet he'll be backPublish date: 2009-12-14 11:03:17
Cameron Shameron on the need for new laws to clarify Ashcroft tax statusPublish date: 2009-12-13 17:06:56
When poor mental health creates great art ...Publish date: 2009-12-12 15:21:13
Giggs gets my Sports Personality vote, but I'll miss the big momentPublish date: 2009-12-11 13:56:15
Tough day for Labour, but tough questions for Tories tooPublish date: 2009-12-10 10:03:13
Alistair Darling's quiet authority key part of recovery.Publish date: 2009-12-09 11:03:25
Clegg risks squeeze as election nearsPublish date: 2009-12-08 15:30:58
Copenhagen really matters. Guardian front page sets scene wellPublish date: 2009-12-07 10:26:33
Four years on, what do we think of Cameron's leadership?Publish date: 2009-12-06 13:55:17
Boris and Waddles, an everyday tale of Tory croneyismPublish date: 2009-12-05 09:53:35
The Speaker's wife is a credit to him, and spot on about Cameron's ToryismPublish date: 2009-12-04 10:52:37
PMQs win for GB was a direct result of Cameron's strategic failurePublish date: 2009-12-03 08:21:10
Cameron's conkers add to his problem with serious opinionPublish date: 2009-12-02 10:59:45
Sarko at risk of riling Obama and GB. Cameron on conkersPublish date: 2009-12-01 10:29:48
The life and death of the man who made the link between exercise and healthPublish date: 2009-11-28 11:37:29
Even top Tories think Dave and Co can't do piss up in a breweryPublish date: 2009-11-27 20:51:29
Well done BBC Inside Sport. Shame on media for news blackout on Coulson bullying casePublish date: 2009-11-26 13:59:57
Well done BBC in Mental Health Media awards. Looking forward to Inside Sport on depression tonightPublish date: 2009-11-25 10:26:22
BBC main bulletin blackout on leaders' speeches bizarrePublish date: 2009-11-24 10:17:48
Business right to be worried about Tory axe on RDAsPublish date: 2009-11-23 10:17:12
Why should Brown and Cameron apologise for being seen to pay tribute to the war dead?Publish date: 2009-11-22 11:12:38
Beware climate change denial dressed up as 'commonsense'Publish date: 2009-11-21 12:54:27
Something for the weekend - a long lazy blog lifted from interviewsPublish date: 2009-11-20 12:35:23
If France and FIFA won't act on Thierry Henry, let's have a boycott of Gillette razorsPublish date: 2009-11-19 10:09:00
Never in the history of human taxation has so much been promised from so many to so fewPublish date: 2009-11-18 18:32:39
Tories far from 'effete and unfamiliar' when it comes to twisted tax prioritiesPublish date: 2009-11-18 09:52:12
Two very different stories of depressionPublish date: 2009-11-17 17:17:11
Congrats to Ellie on PPB campaign, and Willy Hague on getting van RompuyPublish date: 2009-11-17 11:40:14
Private schools worse than State schools - unless it's drugs you're after. DiscussPublish date: 2009-11-16 12:10:25
Fiona Millar 5 Toby Young 0Publish date: 2009-11-15 13:18:38
Where we fight we winPublish date: 2009-11-13 11:22:00
Good luck to Number 10 on 'lobby' review. And a big NO to the other PRPublish date: 2009-11-12 14:39:11
Robert Enke RIP. May his death increase understanding of depressionPublish date: 2009-11-11 17:59:53
On the exploitation of grief to get GordonPublish date: 2009-11-11 08:59:01
Why Tories are not home and dry, and wrong to call GB callousPublish date: 2009-11-10 13:00:20
Labour needs more of the winning mentalityPublish date: 2009-11-09 10:30:44
The scandal of friendship and the shame of Who Wants to be a Millionaire?Publish date: 2009-11-07 10:53:53
US clarity of strategy required for full explanation on AfghanistanPublish date: 2009-11-06 10:31:48
Just because he is French doesn't mean he's wrongPublish date: 2009-11-05 10:58:46
Congratulations to David Cameron and Trevor KavanaghPublish date: 2009-11-04 10:34:36
Is there a Sun blackout on Cameron's dumping of 'cast iron guarantee' on Europe?Publish date: 2009-11-03 20:37:04
Johnson seems to get it on immigration. Right on advisors advising tooPublish date: 2009-11-03 11:58:59
Public opinion on climate change - the public might be the problemPublish date: 2009-11-02 11:37:23
In praise of Stephen Fry, who should tweet or not as he sees fitPublish date: 2009-11-01 09:29:34
John Sergeant spot on re TB. TB's Olympics legacy. Liam Gallagher's generosityPublish date: 2009-10-30 11:50:44
Conservative contortions on Europe and BlairPublish date: 2009-10-29 11:44:12
Two-jobs Osborne suffering credibility deficitPublish date: 2009-10-28 09:14:22
Canaries win AC spin award with dark nights productivity surveyPublish date: 2009-10-27 09:41:48
Blair - dead big in Japan!Publish date: 2009-10-26 17:21:17
No complacency, variants on a themePublish date: 2009-10-24 09:48:46
Griffin may have been dreadful, but there can be no complacencyPublish date: 2009-10-23 11:57:29
Margaret Hodge MP on how to fight the BNPPublish date: 2009-10-22 16:48:39
Thanks to Charlie Falconer and Dominic Grieve - yes, I know he is a ToryPublish date: 2009-10-21 17:24:18
On Biscuitgate, barmy Tory policy, and BNP v GeneralsPublish date: 2009-10-21 10:36:15
More on Obergruppenfuhrer Dacre, Biscuitgate and Bullingdon ConservatismPublish date: 2009-10-20 12:16:37
Biscuitgate and Susan Boyle, no win territory for GBPublish date: 2009-10-19 12:31:00
Hating the Mail - a mindset worth havingPublish date: 2009-10-17 11:28:12
A line by line guide to the Mail statement on Gately article outragePublish date: 2009-10-16 19:12:36
Hit the Mail where it hurtsPublish date: 2009-10-16 16:36:02
Talking Cameron and Obama with US Democrats. Progressive Convervatism? No, he can'tPublish date: 2009-10-16 10:02:40
Inspired by kids' green passionPublish date: 2009-10-14 18:24:13
Good news on leukaemia, good news on student activismPublish date: 2009-10-13 08:24:21
Musings from Bertie Ahern, and how I won the Nobel prize for literaturePublish date: 2009-10-12 09:26:18
Continuing double standards in the mediaPublish date: 2009-10-11 11:36:21
The best policies in Cameron's speech were those of Labour Big GovernmentPublish date: 2009-10-08 17:07:40
Tongues slipping all over the placePublish date: 2009-10-08 09:00:07
Cameron confuses strategy and tactics and puts Union at riskPublish date: 2009-10-07 10:29:26
Osborne inspires apathy at BBC LeedsPublish date: 2009-10-06 16:01:59
Let's see more of the Tory candidates pleasePublish date: 2009-10-06 09:23:11
Labour needs to fight on record to stop Tory vandalismPublish date: 2009-10-05 14:28:40
VacuDave goes all peevish at difficult questions. Bring on the debatesPublish date: 2009-10-04 23:33:52
Lots of joking around in Jersey, though nothing as hysterical as Dave's Europe positionPublish date: 2009-10-03 10:31:22
On The Sun, Obama in Copenhagen and Alistair McGowan on the looPublish date: 2009-10-01 10:59:49
Sun switches ain't wot they used to bePublish date: 2009-09-30 10:17:14
Darling and Mandelson show what I mean by authenticityPublish date: 2009-09-28 16:28:18
Serious Politics 1 Low Journalism 0Publish date: 2009-09-27 11:55:54
Media's love for Cameron should be turned into a weaknessPublish date: 2009-09-26 10:30:03
Time for ministers to stand up and fightPublish date: 2009-09-25 09:40:26
Today's media double standards watchPublish date: 2009-09-24 09:29:45
Breaking News - GB wins award, Lib Dems face all waysPublish date: 2009-09-23 09:43:49
Why authenticity is the key to comms, and why Merkel will winPublish date: 2009-09-22 08:29:13
Why I love NHS walk-in centresPublish date: 2009-09-21 12:13:03
Here goes with the smoked SalmondPublish date: 2009-09-20 10:40:21
Breaking News - Cameron's vacuousness an impersonator's nightmarePublish date: 2009-09-19 11:06:09
Cameron has an army of spin doctors - aka journalistsPublish date: 2009-09-18 10:07:06
On Scottish independence, Cameron's short-termism, and Jimmy Carter being rightPublish date: 2009-09-17 09:56:56
Is Cameron Alex Salmond's Trojan Horse?Publish date: 2009-09-15 10:13:42
On the TUC, Roy of the Rovers and Anna WintourPublish date: 2009-09-14 11:04:46
Memo to Apple boss Steve JobsPublish date: 2009-09-13 17:36:31
A day in the life of a (crap) City traderPublish date: 2009-09-11 17:52:25
Defend record with pride, attack Tories with gustoPublish date: 2009-09-10 11:06:36
Cameron's Conservatism beyond parodyPublish date: 2009-09-09 10:38:00
On transforned cities, and tales of Princess Di and Laura BushPublish date: 2009-09-08 09:45:54
Labour should put minister up against Griffin on Question TimePublish date: 2009-09-06 12:39:56
School speech the latest source of right-wing frothing at ObamaPublish date: 2009-09-05 08:23:02
More horse's mouth, less Beeb blah pleasePublish date: 2009-09-04 22:49:20
Real respect for sport can be Olympic legacyPublish date: 2009-09-04 09:27:34
First ladies watch out for Japanese bombshellPublish date: 2009-09-03 10:47:19
TV debate - good idea in theory, but ...Publish date: 2009-09-02 15:37:43
'No worries' - the new response to thanksPublish date: 2009-09-01 12:25:19
Tremors of Japanese political earthquake will be felt far and widePublish date: 2009-08-30 15:50:54
Pressure on Ed Miliband can help get a climate change dealPublish date: 2009-08-28 13:39:08
Why Tories and media cannot stomach GCSE success storyPublish date: 2009-08-27 16:03:34
Exposing the absurdity of Chris GraylingPublish date: 2009-08-26 13:20:19
Joy and beauty and a night of magicPublish date: 2009-08-20 10:55:11
Twitter NHS backlash good for ObamaPublish date: 2009-08-14 15:44:49
A lifetime's ambition fulfilledPublish date: 2009-08-08 16:59:02
Breaking the blog-a-day spell as warm up to holidayPublish date: 2009-07-20 17:44:49
No hiding place from Twitter, me on the bike, JP in DCPublish date: 2009-07-17 18:17:09
At last - something Obama cannot do wellPublish date: 2009-07-16 10:05:47
Will MPs take the lead in the debate on euthanasia?Publish date: 2009-07-15 12:30:01
Berlin brothel leads the way to a greener worldPublish date: 2009-07-14 10:57:25
A time for GB to explain the whole picturePublish date: 2009-07-13 12:37:54
All hail Monty, Jimmy and Collie!Publish date: 2009-07-12 20:06:36
First triathlon of the summer for me, education award for FionaPublish date: 2009-07-12 09:43:06
Of Burnley's friendly and Obama's wandering eyePublish date: 2009-07-11 12:38:52
Two great early morning momentsPublish date: 2009-07-10 10:27:07
Cameron had better be sure he's rightPublish date: 2009-07-09 11:06:22
Guardian scoop has big questions for press, cops and CameronPublish date: 2009-07-08 20:40:54
Divisive legend: Lance ArmstrongPublish date: 2009-07-07 10:38:23
First hug a hoodie, now grab a gayPublish date: 2009-07-06 12:57:09
Mail on Scumday's wonderful account of Lansley's kipperdomPublish date: 2009-07-05 13:14:51
Ecclestone undermines his own success with alarming views on HitlerPublish date: 2009-07-04 14:04:04
When the conmen move more quickly than the councilPublish date: 2009-07-03 10:19:52
Andrew Lansley done up like a kipperPublish date: 2009-07-02 10:10:52
A day spent interviewing footballers, then being interviewed by a transvestite comedianPublish date: 2009-07-01 14:47:40
When the power of black eyes fadesPublish date: 2009-06-30 09:24:59
Farewell to Henry HodgePublish date: 2009-06-29 20:41:12
Honouring the power of sport to do goodPublish date: 2009-06-29 14:49:42
Andy Murray is a winner. Is that why some Brits don't like him?Publish date: 2009-06-28 09:19:20
New Parliament will look very different. The younger the betterPublish date: 2009-06-27 17:34:26
Two nice surprises, sad end to dayPublish date: 2009-06-26 09:16:33
Apology from the Spectator on Iraq boosts Henry Hodge fundPublish date: 2009-06-25 19:57:26
Thanks to Mr Harper on mental health, rebuttal of Mr Hague on IraqPublish date: 2009-06-24 23:47:54
Glad to find Eric Cantona in a quiet cinema ...Publish date: 2009-06-24 00:46:23
By Dave's friends shall we know him?Publish date: 2009-06-23 11:30:20
The Speaker has to balance tradition and change - but defend ParliamentPublish date: 2009-06-22 11:58:44
Less a blog than an apology for not having done onePublish date: 2009-06-21 20:07:43
The day Lions skipper Paul O'Connell took my trousers downPublish date: 2009-06-20 11:48:28
On the Iraq inquiry, Independent article wrongPublish date: 2009-06-19 20:28:24
Thank you to three readers, now please get involvedPublish date: 2009-06-19 09:13:35
A tribute to a lovely manPublish date: 2009-06-18 17:19:40
Bad times in Belfast, great day for Burnley, odd statement from Ed BallsPublish date: 2009-06-18 10:04:47
A plea for five-figure cyber-donationsPublish date: 2009-06-17 07:40:42
On two inquiriesPublish date: 2009-06-16 08:57:39
From India to Iran to Labour witPublish date: 2009-06-15 10:13:17
Memories of Princess DianaPublish date: 2009-06-14 09:54:55
A House Divided?Publish date: 2009-06-13 02:53:47
A humbling NHS experience, a media row and a good GB speechPublish date: 2009-06-12 10:48:46
Psychiatrists heading for relegation in 'disease prestige' league tablePublish date: 2009-06-11 10:25:35
The shrinks awaitPublish date: 2009-06-10 09:44:16
As Obama fights for healthcare, let's celebrate the record herePublish date: 2009-06-09 12:52:55
Anger at BNP seats must be turned into activismPublish date: 2009-06-08 14:11:10
Can today be as frenzied as Friday?Publish date: 2009-06-07 10:31:04
Take heart from a win in LambethPublish date: 2009-06-06 18:46:40
JP is right there was no proper campaign but Tories still weakPublish date: 2009-06-05 13:47:20
Do we care more about the NHS or moats?Publish date: 2009-06-04 00:21:23
Guardian of social justice or attention-seeker?Publish date: 2009-06-03 10:19:33
Who says Britain can't deliver the best?Publish date: 2009-06-02 08:08:38
Mainstream has a duty to vote against BNPPublish date: 2009-06-01 11:03:29
Let Diversity inspire a vote against the hate-filled BNPPublish date: 2009-05-31 12:24:20
White House whack at UK media well-timed but sure to be ignoredPublish date: 2009-05-30 13:41:00
Elvis has a plan to make MPs King againPublish date: 2009-05-29 12:09:44
At least there's a campaign on in ItalyPublish date: 2009-05-28 09:04:32
A blow to gay rights and a boost for Cameron's short-termismPublish date: 2009-05-27 11:27:41
It's my blog and I'll be a big kid if I want toPublish date: 2009-05-26 23:25:58
Highs feel better after so many lowsPublish date: 2009-05-26 10:13:12
Only one present countsPublish date: 2009-05-25 11:05:46
Contrast Cheney and BushPublish date: 2009-05-24 12:11:45
Sex (or at least the female form) obsessed BritainPublish date: 2009-05-23 20:49:57
Sport at both ends of the financial spectrumPublish date: 2009-05-23 09:57:23
Stronger together - whether Scotland or expensesPublish date: 2009-05-22 10:22:36
Back to Number 10, familiar faces, familiar argumentsPublish date: 2009-05-21 10:14:34
Speaking up for ParliamentPublish date: 2009-05-20 11:44:17
Peace in the Middle East - yes he canPublish date: 2009-05-19 09:37:35
Breaking news - one frenzy at a timePublish date: 2009-05-18 10:34:30
Getting a good look at Vince CablePublish date: 2009-05-17 09:36:55
How do you solve a problem like Silvio?Publish date: 2009-05-16 09:32:21
It was the internet wot won itPublish date: 2009-05-15 10:04:57
There now follows ... a good whack at CameronPublish date: 2009-05-14 17:21:28
They got their kit off - so you get your cash outPublish date: 2009-05-14 07:41:11
Expenses row must not obscure Tory intentions on minimum wagePublish date: 2009-05-13 16:12:08
We love you Burnley, we do ... what a nightPublish date: 2009-05-13 02:37:17
A tweet cannot express the wonders of TGVPublish date: 2009-05-12 08:48:31
Hate the Mail, love ObamaPublish date: 2009-05-10 10:04:00
Burnley 1 Reading 0 - a biased reportPublish date: 2009-05-09 21:26:32
MPs expenses - time for party leaders to meet againPublish date: 2009-05-09 09:50:19
Should happiness replace prosperity as national goal?Publish date: 2009-05-08 08:43:23
Musings from a sleepless nightPublish date: 2009-05-07 07:33:49
Darren Fletcher - an injustice that has to be rightedPublish date: 2009-05-06 09:52:29
Maggie's legacy not as great as she thinksPublish date: 2009-05-05 08:33:02
Here's hoping Cardiff is metaphor for CameronPublish date: 2009-05-04 09:38:30
More Mr Benn and Co pleasePublish date: 2009-05-03 10:03:00
Going Fourth with JPPublish date: 2009-05-02 18:25:41
Journalism - print first, think laterPublish date: 2009-05-02 09:10:01
In praise of two poetsPublish date: 2009-05-01 10:26:36
JP hits the road againPublish date: 2009-04-29 18:52:11
My night with Eddie IzzardPublish date: 2009-04-29 10:53:25
Explaining the 50p top tax ratePublish date: 2009-04-28 09:22:53
George Best and Martin McGuinnessPublish date: 2009-04-27 09:02:35
Cameron confused over indepdendence and impartialityPublish date: 2009-04-26 12:20:56
Guide ro Marathon running part 2Publish date: 2009-04-25 11:01:34
Good signals on coal and the OlympicsPublish date: 2009-04-24 10:45:28
Tips for the London MarathonPublish date: 2009-04-23 17:29:27
Missed the Budget, saw why it matteredPublish date: 2009-04-22 23:09:31
Football good, politics bad. AllegedlyPublish date: 2009-04-22 00:00:24
The Great Wall gets greaterPublish date: 2009-04-21 09:55:22
Two sides to police storyPublish date: 2009-04-20 11:39:54
Budgets, Balls, billionaires and Susan BoylePublish date: 2009-04-19 12:31:45
Do muscles have memories?Publish date: 2009-04-18 09:44:44
Bring back standing at footballPublish date: 2009-04-17 14:50:22
When Facebook friends fall outPublish date: 2009-04-16 12:29:16
Guardian sightings and the email and bath plug agendaPublish date: 2009-04-15 11:32:16
The spin is all in the prismPublish date: 2009-04-14 09:22:41
A setback, not a crisisPublish date: 2009-04-13 12:55:19
The real lessons from Damian McBridePublish date: 2009-04-12 10:49:47
Will English always be the dominant language?Publish date: 2009-04-11 10:02:02
On the pipes and what makes a ScotPublish date: 2009-04-10 11:06:20
John Prescott lazy? NO WAYPublish date: 2009-04-09 09:11:31
David Frost is seventyPublish date: 2009-04-08 08:48:38
The Speaker, BBC2, tonight and tomorrow 8pmPublish date: 2009-04-07 14:25:31
Obama, colds and being woken by Korean missilesPublish date: 2009-04-06 11:59:24
When a call matters more than protocolPublish date: 2009-04-05 11:33:42
Green Cities Champions LeaguePublish date: 2009-04-04 10:19:53
Could Cameron have delivered the G20 deal?Publish date: 2009-04-03 10:11:59
Of Benn and BonoPublish date: 2009-04-02 08:21:16
Memo to Sarko - allez vite a LondresPublish date: 2009-04-01 08:46:17
Happy April Fool's DayPublish date: 2009-04-01 01:44:05
Eurostar, Le Monde and a thought for the G20 sherpasPublish date: 2009-03-31 09:17:22
Why Kevin Rudd made an impactPublish date: 2009-03-30 10:24:41
Pre-G20 hype matters less than post-G20 processPublish date: 2009-03-29 13:17:28
The Damned UnitedPublish date: 2009-03-28 10:37:04
A hobby horse, a plug and a bit of sportPublish date: 2009-03-27 10:22:23
Cloughie - he had a lot to be big-headed aboutPublish date: 2009-03-26 09:38:36
A sad sight of the old fearing the youngPublish date: 2009-03-25 17:03:07
Post-modern, post-structural, or bullshit?Publish date: 2009-03-25 08:18:02
Learning the right lessons from ObamaPublish date: 2009-03-24 08:53:15
Lazy Dave needs to keep an eye on lazy KenPublish date: 2009-03-23 11:16:14
Farewell favourite restaurant, hello hometownPublish date: 2009-03-22 08:18:09
Dave, Danny and have the Tories really changed?Publish date: 2009-03-21 08:55:13
Life beyond Dover ...Publish date: 2009-03-20 10:11:21
My friends in The New Statesman - Fergie, Fiona, Tony, Sarah, Kevin, 'Dacre,' and a great GB idea for the G20Publish date: 2009-03-18 10:38:22
Iraq, Iran, GB, Obama and diplomatic chessPublish date: 2009-03-17 10:07:13
The Age of StupidPublish date: 2009-03-16 08:27:13
Is all change good?Publish date: 2009-03-15 10:00:06
The pressure of being a post-modern sex godPublish date: 2009-03-14 10:00:55
Cameron still hasn't sealed the deal with businessPublish date: 2009-03-13 09:21:49
Stand up for social workersPublish date: 2009-03-12 08:31:17
Surely Malcolm Tucker could have told Armando Ianucci ... You can't spin a spinnerPublish date: 2009-03-11 10:58:25
Start of a new approach from Labour?Publish date: 2009-03-10 09:54:12
A peace process still strongPublish date: 2009-03-09 08:21:05
Day of destiny for the real footballer of the yearPublish date: 2009-03-08 09:21:06
Private advice to Peggy Mitchell - the leaked note in fullPublish date: 2009-03-07 08:17:21
Boris, the Tories and the tummy-tickling poodle pressPublish date: 2009-03-06 09:49:37
A day in the life of the self-obsessed TV reporterPublish date: 2009-03-05 07:55:47
GB - good speech, well deliveredPublish date: 2009-03-04 19:31:05
Notes on the environment, a role in EastEndersPublish date: 2009-03-04 10:58:56
She may be my 'wife' but it is time to rebut!Publish date: 2009-03-03 10:52:59
Some speeches matter more than othersPublish date: 2009-03-02 12:04:45
Mental health and the Carling Cup FinalPublish date: 2009-03-01 09:08:17
Inside the chocolate factoryPublish date: 2009-02-28 10:23:59
GB on the G20, JP on Jeremy KylePublish date: 2009-02-27 09:14:36
Charity and the credit crunch, please give generously!Publish date: 2009-02-26 08:55:12
Why oh why are the Tories not home and dry?Publish date: 2009-02-24 09:44:59
Me, Dermot and ten top songsPublish date: 2009-02-23 10:02:19
Names round-upPublish date: 2009-02-22 08:43:39
What's in a name?Publish date: 2009-02-21 09:58:14
Editing the New StatesmanPublish date: 2009-02-20 11:42:36
Salute Peter M’s proper use of the F wordPublish date: 2009-02-19 09:58:58
Labour's communications challenge for the NHSPublish date: 2009-02-18 10:34:39
In praise of KeighleyPublish date: 2009-02-17 14:33:57
A night at the EmiratesPublish date: 2009-02-17 00:06:51
When marriage is testedPublish date: 2009-02-16 13:36:35
Spare me the myths and the whiningPublish date: 2009-02-15 13:29:50
Dave Cameron - is that all there is?Publish date: 2009-02-14 11:11:55
Boris Johnson: F is for ...Publish date: 2009-02-13 07:55:10
The Cameron vacuumPublish date: 2009-02-12 14:48:33
Lincoln, Obama, Blair and the 24 hour media culturePublish date: 2009-02-11 10:28:47
Eighteen interviews later ...Publish date: 2009-02-10 19:24:45
Time to talk about Time to Change on NewsnightPublish date: 2009-02-09 22:47:49
So that’s what they mean by online community?Publish date: 2009-02-08 12:12:51
First blogPublish date: 2009-02-05 15:23:57
Rob
2009-05-11 22:38:46Tough on the perception of....
Hello Alastair, love the show.
Stigma aside, you mention diagnosis. Crucial. I thought I would bandy around some facts.
According to their 2007/08 guide to local services, my Primary Care Trust spent £54,400,000 on mental healthcare with their chosen service provider, a "mental health style mega-trust". This trust, according to their last annual report serves a population of 1,100,000 but employ the equivalent of 51 full-time psychiatrists: Google "nhs psychiatrists" with the quotation marks or nhs_psychiatrists separated with the underscore. Those psychiatrists would leave Harlaston Village Hall half-empty.
I think the National Health Service needs more psychiatrists on the beat.
And relax.
Catriona Smith
2009-05-11 22:13:53Thanks AC for these statistics and also for the fact that you will be putting up the other three parts of your documentary. All the best to you.
AG
2009-05-11 21:59:08Thanks for listening!
gary Enefer
2009-05-11 20:54:48Thanks to all on this particular blog. I do struggle with depression and anxiety and it feels like an invader. I will definitely check my testosterone
levels nick and checkout your website.
Did anyone manage to contact and sponsor Katereadon( top tips website or Twitter)please?
Mil
2009-05-11 20:49:25The best thing about what you're doing with Mind is that it tells the world out there that people who have suffered from mental ill health have no automatic sell-by dates - with intelligent and professional guidance and help (not *always* easy to come by unfortunately), they can return to being productive, useful and beloved members of society again.
Widening the parameters of the debate a little, I do so wish we could banish the term "disabled people" from our vocabulary. People with a chronic illness are "people with support needs" - that is to say, people first, needs second. The term "disabled people" does nothing to positively mould an often unknowing public's perception of what it is to have to engage with the challenges of living under the shadow of a permanent or semi-permanent illness or condition.
That's why if I were Prime Minister for one day, the first thing I'd do is rewrite the language of disability legislation.
Thanks for continuing to speak out anyhow.
FF
2009-05-11 18:37:32from FF
Alistair,
ref your discussion on BBC Breakfast News, I totally understand how this hits. I was hit for a while for a totally different reason than for yourself, I had an op that went wrong and left me in pain for years. The problem has now been rectified but I found myself in some dark places and can totally empathise with anyone who goes there.
Although I am totally inqualified in this field, if there are any specific organisations that could use a volunteer, pleae advise.
FF
Christopher Young
2009-05-11 18:30:34I would like to add to the praise you have received so far about your comments on depression and related mental health issues. Having caught your appearance on the BBC Breakfast News this morning, I was startled (a good thing!) by your eloquence and understanding of an issue that I have struggled with for some years now. I wholeheartedly agreed with your description of waht it is like to suffer from depression, the arbitrary feelings it can arise and the sheer difficulty on feels when trying to ecplain what depression "feels like". Once again I would like to thank you for having the bravery to openly discuss this topic in the public domain and I would also encourage others to please take heed of Mr Campbell's words; there is help if you know ehere to look.
Thank you and please keep up the good work!
A G
2009-05-11 18:21:20Dear Alastair I just wanted thank you for bringing this subject to bear. You have given depression the degree of respect that has been warranted for decades. It’s an affliction that nobody wants but many have to suffer and manage. I have everything in my life that I desire, a near perfect wife, beautiful children, a nice house near the coast, but I still suffer from this controlling and sometimes debilitating illness. I can control it, but so often it hits me with out warning, quite frankly I’m worn down by it. Three years ago an incident at work (a promise of promotion) was withdrawn due to disagreement with a work colleague in a meeting. Now despite the fact I was proven correct, the promotion was withdrawn due (as management saw it) to unprofessional conduct. I was shattered and took a huge nose dive. As a conscientious, caring, hard working person, wanting only to do the right thing all the time, I just could not see how I had ended up where I was. I felt shipwrecked, stranded on an island with no one to talk to, or understand what I was feeling. Self-esteem was at an all time low and no matter what I did I felt utterly lonely. Over the next month I was asked to try and return to work twice, and on both occasions I broke down. It wasn’t until three months later I managed it. That is when the battle started though. The stigma attached to depression is sometimes more debilitating than the illness itself. You are made to feel like a leper, a social inadequate and you can see how easy it would be to turn to suicide to escape. I can not tell you how overwhelmed I was when you stepped forward. Whilst I know I had the strength to move forward, you have empowered everyone. It’s just a shame though that there is still such a long way to go. Business / people as a whole, have so much more to understand. The afflicted don’t want to suffer but require the support to pick them selves up. Can government help do you think? I offer my support and would be happy to help you in any way you saw fit. Thanks again.
Dave Edmundson
2009-05-11 17:21:53With your passionate support of Burnley FC and the combined effect of 72 Football League community schemes we have the potential to substantially deliver a power ful message to men in particular by engaging this hard to reach audience through football. Health is one of the core themes that Football League clubs community schemes are required to embrace and a number of clubs have focused on mental health issues. In addition, Premier League clubs have also concentrated on health and especially men's health.With your influence and a lobby of the Department of Health, the positive impact of football's reach and community engagement will help a considerable number of people
Helen McNallen
2009-05-11 15:40:29Good afternoon. Your amazing ongoing efforts to raise awareness and understanding of depression and reduce the stigma and encourage people to seek help when they need it can only help reduce these terrible statistics. I felt bad enough as a woman in 'a man's world' on the trading floor in the city having a breakdown and know several male friends who are suffering from depression who won't go to their doctor for fear of appearing weak for seeking help for a mental illness, fear over losing their jobs or fear of not being able to get another job because of a CV blotted with depression. I missed the beginning of your interview on Radio 5 Live and your Breakfast TV interview. I have called the programmes and they have given me permission to put them on my website, www.depressioncanbefun.com but they cannot be sure that the interviews will be featured on the BBC website. Do you know if there is anywhere or any other way that I can get hold of copies for my depression website to help others who missed them? Best regards,Helen
Em Hawkins
2009-05-11 15:18:01Dear Alastair
I heard your interview on R5L this morning and was reassured that I am not alone. I am currently struggling with a severe depressive episode and wondering whether/how I can return to work after 3 months off sick. My illness has been exacerbated by work-related stress.
I wonder whether part of the reluctance of many men to acknowledge their mental health issues is directly related to their earning power - I'm in the relatively unusual situation of earning considerably more than my husband and as a direct result neglected my mental health situation for a long time as I was terrified of the impact it might have on my work and family situation, until things became unbearable.
I wish you and MIND every success with the campaign.
Em
2009-05-11 14:58:35I just checked and could find a listen again feature for "5 Live Breakfast" if that's what you were on. Shucks.
Could it be that media editors project their own qualms about depression in men thus contributing to the lack of coverage the issue might get?
I would rather die than write about my fears and worries on a public wall, but I admire your courage and openness over this whole issue.
I know the award is announced in a few days. Good luck.
Jacqui Rafferty
2009-05-11 14:37:39It is vital that we continue to raise awareness of mental illness in order to de-stigmatise it. And it is essential that we get men talking.
Wouldn't it be useful if Health and Wellbeing (which of course includes mental health) were treated as a basic skill, being taught in schools and being funded to be delivered to adults? Let people know that we all have mental health and we need to look after it - not having a mental illness doesn't mean that you are mentally healthy.
Furthermore, the government could make Mental Health First Aiders a requirement for all workplaces in the same way that physical First Aid is a legal requirement.
Marion
2009-05-11 12:23:11Missed your "bigging up" Mind Week on radio... shame. Worthy cause - well done. I hope one day men can talk about depression and its treatment as openly as they now speak of testicular cancer. Lance Armstrong changed that and your courage is clearly making a difference to the stigma attached to mental health.
Looking forward to seeing Cracking Up later...
NIck O'Hara Smith
2009-05-11 12:12:50Dear Alistair,
Your work on highlighting the "male denial" Syndrome is a welcome intervention. It's something I have been working on for many years now. I began with Testicular Cancer some twenty one years ago. Having lost both at once, you can imagine, I too, was pretty depressed and "lost my way". That "loss of way" was exacerbated by the fact my doctors failed to initiate Testosterone therapy for me for about six weeks. This is where our paths begin to intertwine sir.
Over the course of the past twenty years I've been able to gather the evidence to support my assertion that hormones really matter in men. Indeed, the lack of Testosterone is seen to cause, wait for it, Depression, lethargy, Osteoporosis, Alzheimer's, Heart Disease, The Metabolic Syndrome, possibly Type 2 Diabetes and other ailments.
My question to you is have you had your Testosterone levels checked? I think you should, if you haven't already. Unpleasant thought it may be to contemplate a weakness in "that" area, being in denial about it, is a sure way to an early death, according to research.
There are new European guidelines about Testosterone Deficiency, which fundamentally changes the approach Doctors need to take towards the condition. These guidelines follow six years after similar US guidelines.
The question must be, why, in the UK, are we not taking note and doing something about it?
You can read more and obtain the guidelines referred to on my "Testosterone Deficiency Centre" website, at www.androids.org.uk.
You are doing great work, but, please do not ignore this important component of the depression story.
Thanks
Nick
Nick O'Hara Smith
Author: The Testosterone Deficiency Centre (www.androids.org.uk)
Associate Editor: The Testicular Cancer Resource Center (tcrc.acor.org)
Livestrong Community Leader: The Lance Armstrong Foundation (www.LAF.org)
Fundraiser: Everyman Cancer Research www.justgiving.com/nickohs
Stuart Le Gassick
2009-05-11 10:56:38Alastair
A great start to the weak!1 Your article and what you do for the Miond charity is sincere and well thought out!!
I remeber you coming to an event in Somerset at the Slab House Pub to launch your book! You were surrounded by growling, aggressive Tory's who were there to show you their displeasure but after your talk about Mental Health they were completely transfixed. The number of letters I received, illustrating the respect you won that day, was quite astonishing, and your statement about a broken leg is easy to diagnose and fix but mental illness is not, was taken on board by all.
I hope it goes well this week and with your energy I am sure it will!!
Alan Quinn
2009-05-11 09:58:51btw Ally, I have sent you letters in the past, via Burnley last year for an autographed book for our yearly charity reunion event at work. Any chance this year? I'll even do you a swap, your book for one of my bird boxes (I make a dozen every year and give them away),
Cheers,
AQ
Alan Quinn
2009-05-11 09:49:38Sobering reading on male sucides there AC. Good luck with the campaign.
I sometimes raise money for a Down's Syndrome charity and I know that recently they've nearly folded due to lack of funds.
Don Diego
2009-05-11 09:24:31Mr Campbell,
I have just listened to your interview with Nicky Campbell on Radio 5Live this morning.
Not that it will matter to you in the slightest, but up until now I have always had an extremely low opinion of you and your role in the Blair government. Allowing seemingly unlimited mass immigration and the creation & fostering of the housing bubble has doomed several generations to modern-day serfdom.
As a direct result of these short-sighted policies, millions will never be able to own their own home, raise families and become fully engaged citizen stakeholders in the UK. The exodus of capable, hard-working Brits to pastures new will change forever the face of this country, and you bear a certain amount of responsibility for this.
However, this is not the reason I have decided to send you an e-mail. As someone who has suffered from anxiety and depression for the past 30 years, and who is currently undergoing counselling at my local MIND centre, I would like to sincerely commend you for your courage this morning. I was completely unaware of your own struggles with depression and on behalf of all of us who ride the roller coaster, I would like to thank you for coming forward in such a public manner.
I for one do not feel quite so alone this morning.
gary Enefer
2009-05-11 09:18:18Dear AC
Thank you for doing do so much for MIND.It would be nice if you can look into the legal care,or lack of it.I sued my ex employer for causing a me a
stress breakdown. The employer said I would never win,then the Union said 'they didn't like it' as ''my problem was stress related''. I then saw a QC who then said ''there's no point because you can't prove stress like you can an Industrial accident''. I realise it is more difficult but the so-called reprsentatives didn't even want to try.
I felt very scared an alone and MIND helped by being there. I won my case through being streetwise I guess but not everyone is and I fear for others .
By the way I am following Katereardon on Twitter who runs Toptips website/friend of Marthalanefox who I am also following. Kate needs about £65 for race for life to make her target of £100. I have sponsored a tenner - can my fellow bloogers help and just mention where you saw this to raise the profile,even more,of this superb blog and twitter?You can sponsor on kate's twitter page
Thanks AC,Thank you bloogers
istreetwise
Rebecca King
2009-05-11 09:00:52It is worrying that men suffer in silence in this way. I wonder if there is a link between this an how so many men with untreated mental health problems end up in the prison system. Hope all goes well today.
Alina Palimaru
2009-05-11 08:29:43Keep up the superb work, Alastair! I hope you win the MIND Award this week! And many thanks for posting Cracking Up! I have been wanting to see it since it aired last fall.
Post a comment