Mind offers mental health support to MPs as Brexit takes its toll
Paul Farmer, Chief Executive of mental health charity Mind, said MPs and their staff are working in a “uniquely pressurised environment” and are not immune to developing mental health problems.
Mental health charity Mind has issued wellbeing advice to all 650 MPs sitting in Westminster and their staff, following a series of parliamentarians revealing the impact Brexit is having on their mental health.
Louise Rubin, Parliamentary Manager at Mind, said: “It has been really worrying to hear stories of MPs hiding in cupboards, turning to alcohol, and feeling out of control because of the pressure they are under. Mental wellbeing depends on various factors, including working conditions which is why we are offering support to MPs and their staff. We must not forget politicians are human and it is vital that during this particularly pressurised time they are able to access the right mental health support.”
The charity’s advice came as an anonymous parliamentarian described Westminster as “a boiling pot of mental ill health”. Others have highlighted the impact of the abuse they are receiving around Brexit and have called for greater mental health support.
Their accounts follow an unprecedented few weeks in Parliament which have seen a recess cancelled and lengthy, heated debates in the Commons. While some MPs have said they have sought help through therapy and mindfulness courses, Mind has urged all parliamentarians to get the support they need, whatever that might look like.
In his letter to MPs’ offices, Paul Farmer, Chief Executive of mental health charity Mind, said MPs and their staff are working in a “uniquely pressurised environment” and are not immune to developing mental health problems.
Ms Rubin added: “In recent weeks, many MPs and those who work for them have talked about their large workloads, the febrile atmosphere in parliament and abuse they are receiving around Brexit. It’s easy to neglect mental wellbeing under these conditions but long-term unmanageable stress can negatively affect physical and mental health, and can lead to or worsen things like depression and anxiety. Whatever profession you are in, and wherever you work, you should be able to access good mental health support when you need it.”
The charity’s recommendations include a guide for managing stress with tips such as relaxation techniques, sleep advice and pointers on physical activity. MPs have also received information on a range of mental health problems from Mind, resources to support their own and their staff’s mental wellbeing and contact details for Mind’s Infoline, which provides confidential advice and support.
Ms Rubin also urged others whose mental wellbeing might be affected by the political climate to seek support. She said: “We know that the impact turbulent political times can have also extends beyond MPs. While the effect of Brexit on the nation’s mental health is hard to measure, political and world events can create a great deal of uncertainty, which can make some of us feel anxious, stressed and down. If feelings are overwhelming or affecting your daily life we do recommend speaking to a friend or family member or go to your GP, who can talk you through the support that’s available.”
An earlier version of this article made an inaccurate reference to Huw Merriman MP. We are happy to clarify that this was incorrect.
PoliticsHome Newsletters
Get the inside track on what MPs and Peers are talking about. Sign up to The House's morning email for the latest insight and reaction from Parliamentarians, policy-makers and organisations.
