Posted January 02nd 2015
When Lydia found out about the PlusOne scheme, which encourages friends and families of people with mental health problems to get involved with research, she was keen to take part in support of her husband, Lann.
“My husband has bipolar disorder, and for the last five years the process of seeking help, being diagnosed, and finding treatment has been a tremendous battle for him, and for our whole family” explains Lydia, a mum of two who runs her own business making silver jewellery. “I got involved with the PlusOne research at NCMH because it was something I could practically do to help.”
But Lydia wanted to do more, so she encouraged friends and family to take part too.
“We all know someone who has suffered, or is suffering from mental health problems” says Lydia. “As with any illness, the more we know about it, the better equipped we will be to treat it. It is so easy to help, and could make a vital difference to someone you love in the future.”
Professor Ian Jones said: “Everyone at NCMH is extremely grateful to Lydia for the fantastic contribution she’s made. We launched PlusOne so that friends and family of volunteers could help make a difference, and she’s gone above and beyond our expectations.”
“I’d urge anyone who wants to make a difference for those with mental illness to get involved with our research, even if they’ve never experienced it themselves. Their information allows us to make important comparisons, so it’s extremely helpful in learning more about the causes of mental health problems.”
Become a PlusOne today – complete the online form at www.ncmh.info/PlusOne, or call us on 029 2068 8401.
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