World Mental Health Day | Data shows how timely intervention for mental health leads to significant and rapid improvement (RedArc)

IFA Magazine is covering World Mental Health Day, publishing RedArc’s findings that 83% of people experiencing severe anxiety or depression recover to moderate levels or less within three to four months when they receive timely professional support.

The pressures of modern life—from heavy workloads and balancing work and family, to social media and global uncertainty—are taking a serious toll on mental wellbeing. On World Mental Health Day today, RedArc highlights the impact of timely support, showing how early intervention can make a real difference.

• 83% of people with severe anxiety or depression recover to moderate or less in 3–4 months with RedArc support

The pressures of modern life – from heavy workloads and the challenges of balancing work and family life, to the impact of social media and the uncertainty of global events – are taking a significant toll on individuals’ wellbeing. According to RedArc, these common stressors are contributing to the growing demand for mental health support, as well as the need for treatment of more serious mental health conditions.

According to figures from Rethink Mental Illness, individuals are eight times more likely to wait over 18 months for public-funded mental health treatment than physical health treatment.¹ RedArc warns of the serious consequences of this delayed intervention, highlighting the risks of deterioration when individuals are not able to access mental health support when needed.

Conversely, RedArc emphasises that timely access to appropriate support can lead to significant and rapid improvements. Mental health is the most common reason people turn to RedArc, and its data shows that, with its support, 83% of individuals experiencing severe anxiety or depression recovered to a moderate level or less within just three to four months.²

Christine Husbands, commercial consultant, RedArc commented: “Supporting mental health conditions requires the expertise of qualified, clinically trained practitioners. Our data shows that with the relevant professional help, people can make significant strides towards recovery within a relatively short period; however, support must remain in place for as long as it is needed. Recovery is not a one-size-fits-all journey – no one can or should judge that an individual is ‘back to normal’ after a set number of counselling sessions or therapies. Everyone’s circumstances are unique, and these can change over time, sometimes for the worse, making ongoing support essential.”

Support for mental health is widely available through insurers and employers, and it is vital that everyone encourages greater uptake. This support should not be regarded solely as a last resort for those already in crisis: everyone should feel comfortable accessing help, particularly as early intervention is often key to preventing individuals from reaching a point of significant decline.

Christine Husbands concluded: “Our message for World Mental Health Day is clear: seeking support should be viewed as sign of strength, and accessing help can make a profound difference to long-term wellbeing.”