'Progressive' health strategy adopted

Line in sand for recognition of mental illness

Manx residents seeking help for mental illness are being offered a better deal from the health service - after Tynwald approved the Island's first strategic plan for mental health.

Health and Social Care minister Howard Quayle won unanimous support for the plan, which recognises mental well-being and physical health as being equally important. 

One in four people will experience a mental illness at some point in their lives - but have often found their condition carries a stigma.

The new strategy aims to increase acceptance of mental illness, and to promote well-being, across government, private and third sectors.

As the strategy was formally adopted, Mr Quayle thanked members for supporting what he said was a 'massive stride'.

He said many committed people had produced the document: