Gemma Byrne
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Gemma Byrne
@gemmabyrne.bsky.social
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Policy and Campaigns at Mind

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Reposted by Gemma Byrne
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Heartbreaking figures. The causes will, of course, be complex. But a caricatured debate about 'overdiagnosis' is a dangerous distraction when, as @mind.org.uk's @gemmabyrne.bsky.social says here, over half a million under-18s are on mental health waiting lists www.theguardian.com/society/2025...
Suicide rates among young people in England rose 50% in 10 years, figures show
Charities accuse government of ‘sliding backwards’ on child mental health after ONS findings
www.theguardian.com
October 21, 2025 at 11:08 AM
gemmabyrne.bsky.social
We don't know what evidence the government is using to back up its claims about 'overdiagnosis' of mental health problems.

But here's what we do know about the nation's mental health (1/7)
mind.org.uk Mind @mind.org.uk · Mar 17
Where's the evidence that mental health is being "overdiagnosed"?
Dear UK government, Let's be clear: our mental health is getting worse, and cutting benefits won’t help. You claim mental health is being “overdiagnosed”, but where’s the evidence? The reality is that our environment affects our wellbeing - pandemics, the cost of living crisis, political unrest and ongoing concerns around climate change are all taking their toll. But when people seek help, they face months, or even years, of waiting. Rhetoric like this is dangerous. It reinforces stigma and stops people getting support. If you’re serious about change, listen to those affected. We can turn this crisis around - but only if the government works with us, not against us. We look forward to hearing from you, Mind
March 17, 2025 at 6:44 PM