Mental health

Overview

Around one in five adults in England, and a similar proportion of children and young people aged 5–25, experience a mental health condition such as depression, anxiety, or obsessive compulsive disorder.

Physical and mental health are closely linked. Around a third of people living with a long-term physical health condition also experience a common mental health condition. People with severe mental illness, such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, have a life expectancy 15–20 years lower than the general population, often due to preventable physical health conditions.

Inequalities, including deprivation and racial disparities, continue to have a significant impact on mental health and access to care.

We work with partners across south London and beyond to support the adoption and spread of innovations that improve mental health outcomes. This includes embedding mental health within wider programmes, breaking down the barriers between physical and mental health, and addressing inequalities in access to care.

We also support the spread of evidence-based good practice through our networks and partnerships, working with a wide range of stakeholders locally, regionally and nationally.