#FeelsFM research – the impact of mental health stigma on Scotland’s young people
A new report by See Me has shown that adults making time to improve their understanding of mental health could go a long way to tackle the stigma which many young people continue to feel.
The new research looks into the impact of mental health stigma on Scotland’s young people, including students. It highlights a number of key themes around young people’s relationships with adults, especially family, tutors and lecturers and those they may look to for help and support, such as healthcare professionals.
The data was collected through FeelsFM, the world’s first emoji-powered jukebox. Through the website, young people select an emoji that matches their emotions, then answer a question around mental health stigma before being offered a playlist to go with their mood.
The platform was originally launched in 2018, before being reworked in 2021 to gather further information on young people’s relationships and how the pandemic had impacted on mental health stigma.
The newly revamped FeelsFM 2.0 gathered nearly 600 responses, with young people reporting a desire for greater understanding from the adults in their life, more opportunities for open conversation, and encouraged adults to take the time to listen and learn more about mental health to overcome stigma.
The report contains a set of recommendations for changes needed, at national level, to improve the lives of young people struggling with their mental health. You can read the full report below.
