EIGHT out of ten people (82%) in the south west who have experienced a mental health problem say they have lost friendships as a result of their illness, according to a survey commissioned by Time to Change — England's biggest mental health anti-stigma programme, run by the charities Mind and Rethink Mental Illness. 

Talking openly with friends is an important part of many people's lives, yet seems to be a step too far for many of us.  Findings show that 51% of adults in the south west would feel awkward talking to a friend who was experiencing a mental health problem.  And, only just over a quarter (28%) feel it would be their own responsibility to bring the subject up if they knew a friend was going through a tough time with their mental health. 

Due to the stigma around mental illness, many people shy away from supporting someone they know who might be experiencing one.  Forty-two per cent admit they don't feel they know enough about mental health problems to talk to a friend going through one, and around one in four confess they wouldn't know what to say. 

Furthermore, 24% of people feel that talking openly about it might make their friend's situation worse.

These findings are released as Time to Change launches its latest campaign — It's time to talk. 

The campaign is inspired by stories of real people who have been there for someone experiencing a mental illness.  A new advert featuring these 'everyday heroes' will air on TV screens throughout January and highlight the importance of staying in contact and being supportive when friends and family members experience a mental health problem. 

Time to Change director Sue Baker said: 'These findings show that despite many people knowing someone with a mental health problem, they still don't feel equipped with enough knowledge to be a supportive friend.  The misconceptions that still surround those of us with mental health problems make people worry about offending or embarrassing someone, or saying the wrong thing.' 

To find out more about the campaign go to http://www.time-to-change.org.uk">www.time-to-change.org.uk