85% of Americans believe that mental health should be taken just as seriously as physical health

May 04, 2017, 6:18 PM GMT+0

27% of US adults have sought mental health counseling

In a recent video, The Duke of Cambridge and Lady Gaga chatted about stigmas surrounding mental illness, trying to combat the idea that psychological ailments are somehow abnormal or a sign of weakness. At the end of the discussion, the two came to the conclusion that mental health is actually the “same as physical health” and should be treated as such.

Just in time for Mental Health Awareness Month, YouGov put Prince William and Lady Gaga’s sentiment to the test. While only 11% of those polled had in fact seen the video, the overwhelming majority (85%) think that mental health issues should be taken just as seriously as physical health issues.

Individuals aged 55+ are particularly inclined to feel this way, nine in ten (91%) believe mental and physical health deserve equal attention and care. In comparison, just 77% of those 18-24 share this opinion.

Despite being less inclined to equate physical and mental health, 18-24 year olds are more likely to have gone to therapy – 35% have sought mental health counseling compared to only 20% of those 55+. Many theorize that young people are increasingly seeking out treatment for mental health issues due to the stagnant job market, the exorbitant cost of college education and the stress of being in constant digital communication.