Back in 2017, I highlighted how YoungMinds, the UK’s leading charity championing the wellbeing and mental health of young people, had posted a booklet on its website that claimed the following:
It’s rare for a mental illness to occur out of the blue, it usually builds up over time and comes to a point where people need professional help. The causes are wide ranging and include a chemical imbalance in the brain. Medication can help to address chemical imbalances and make someone feel more ‘normal’"
I recently brought this to their attention and, surprisingly, they have addressed it. Not only have YoungMinds removed the content, they have issued an explanation and an apology. For that, I must give them kudos.
Their statement came via Twitter and reads:
This, to me at least, is a very positive move by the charity and, to my knowledge, it's the first time anyone has publicly apologised for once claiming mental illness is caused by a chemical imbalance, moreover, medication can address that imbalance.We endeavour to ensure our information is accurate and in line with the latest science, and value feedback where it is not. On this occasion, it seems as though we did carry misleading information on our website, but it has since been amended. We apologise for any confusion.
— YoungMinds (@YoungMindsUK) October 27, 2022
It's a start and, I believe, kids who use their services or visit their website will be safer for it.
I applaud this approach.
Bob Fiddaman
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