Sinead O'Connor - is asking for help harder than getting it?

"Taking to the social networking site, the mother-of-four claimed that she was in 'danger' if she didn't receive medicine immediately."

It can be hard to find help, especially if you don't know where to look - but many people find it hard to ask too. Our Time to Change programme, run in conjunction with Mind is all about tackling the stigma and disspelling the myths that stop people from talking about their mental health. 

Fortunately, Sinead asked her social network for help, and they did. Although it's not for everyone, social media can often provide support, 'signposting' information or direct help when it's needed. Clearly it's not a perfect system - there are no guarantees, and cases of cyber-bullying are well documented in the media - but Facebook and Twitter can be positive for mental health too. We produced a podcast on social networking and mental health last year featuring mental health commentators and activists such as Seaneen Molloy. 

 We also have a discussion community called RethinkTalk, that's all about getting support from other people with experience of mental illlness.

Sinead O'Connor has now received help, and says

"dont be ashamed to reach out"

and

"thank God for twitter"

on her page. But have you found it difficult to ask for help? What stopped you talking - and what helped you open up? Please let us know. If you need information we have a great advice team here, and if you're feeling low right now, remember Samaritans are open all day, every day.

Join our discussions on Facebook and Twitter