Who are we and why are we here?

Ynys Môn Mind is affiliated to Mind, the leading mental health charity in England and Wales. We work to achieve a better quality of life for those experiencing mental distress. It is committed to challenging and tackling the stigma and misinformation that exists in the wider community around mental health.

Stigma and discrimination still have a huge impact on people’s lives. Almost 9 out of 10 people affected by mental health problems have experienced discrimination; some even feel that the effects of stigma and discrimination are worse than the symptoms of the illness itself. Stigma can cost people their job, relationships, housing and many opportunities in life.

Attitudes need shifting

If we look back historically just 50 years, general attitudes have changed greatly regarding sexuality, race, ethnicity and women. Different changes in legislation and awareness through education has seen great advancements. However, research shows that in the 21st century, prejudice against people with mental health problems is actually increasing.

Everyday People

Individuals who experience a mental health problem are just like everyone else, because they are everyone else! Statistics now show us that one in four people will experience a mental health problem in their lifetime. Look around your class, workplace, bus-stop or pub… how many people do you see? If one out of every four people you see will experience a mental health problem in their lifetime that’s a lot of everyday people.

Ynys Môn Mind’s Vision

• To improve everyone’s lives by tackling the stigma and discrimination that exists around mental health.
• To work towards a society in which individuals feel they are able to disclose and talk openly about their mental health problem with friends, family, partners and work colleagues without being judged.

Ynys Môn Mind’s Mission

• To normalize mental health. Mental health is not something that affects ‘them’, it’s something that affects us all. We all need to look after our mental health.
• To change the way the wider community views mental health and individuals with mental health problems.
• To work towards ending the stigma and discrimination towards mental health.
• To send out a strong message of recovery. People who experience a mental health problem can and do lead a full life and achieve greatly.