Britons are seeking emotional support from hairdressers, shopkeepers, personal trainers and even their pets, according to a poll of 2,000 adults. The survey revealed that three quarters of respondents turn to these unconventional sources for a mental health boost, with 16 per cent finding solace in confiding in a colleague or manager at work.
However, the research commissioned by BetterHelp suggests that while these outlets can provide comfort and familiarity, nearly half (49 per cent) still struggle to cope, indicating that informal support systems may not always be enough.
Earlier this year, BetterHelp released the ‘State of Stigma’ report which found that despite a quarter of people not considering their problems ‘serious enough’ to warrant professional therapy, 49 per cent feel that formal support is difficult to access.
Over a third are put off by the stigma still attached to therapy, while a fifth reported it was difficult to access providers. Joanne Saulter, a BACP-accredited therapist from the company, said: “Finding the right, qualified therapist can be daunting.”
She added: “Turning to trusted figures like hairdressers or colleagues can offer comfort in the moment – but they’re not always equipped to help us process deeper emotional challenges.”
The study also discovered that almost half of adults would be more inclined to try therapy if they could switch therapists easily and confidentially, a figure that rises even higher for those aged between 18 and 24.
Furthermore, two thirds would be more likely to seek a professional therapist if they were matched with someone who was non-judgmental, convenient and understanding, qualities typically found in their unofficial counsellors.
The main reasons for turning to these stand-ins included trust, being ‘easy to talk to’ and understanding.
However, 27 per cent of over 65s claimed they have never ‘needed’ to confide in anyone. Meanwhile men are 33 per cent more likely than women to believe therapy won’t help them.
To bridge the gap between individuals and effective mental health support, BetterHelp has launched its Therapist Match Commitment.
It uses member preferences, its data-driven matching algorithm, and the local therapists available to ensure users are paired with the most effective therapist available.
