had themselves been diagnosed and 28% who knew someone who had, according to the survey conducted late last year.
“The results of this survey are encouraging, and a signal that APA’s and others’ work over the years to promote mental health care is paying off,” Evans said in an APA news release. “They indicate a willingness to be more open about mental illness, as well as a strong belief among older respondents that having a mental disorder is nothing to be ashamed of.”
The survey also assessed attitudes about suicide. More than 90% agreed that people who are suicidal can be treated and go on to live successful lives and that suicide can often be prevented.
Most also supported openness around suicide — 87% said people should talk about suicide more openly, and 84% said people should not be ashamed to say a loved one died by suicide.
Nearly 4 of 5 respondents agreed that less stigma and shame around mental health disorders would lower suicide rates.
But 30% said that they would not reveal the cause of death if a loved one died by
