Gypsies and Travellers have amongst the highest levels of mental distress in the UK (Parry et al., 2004). Research shows that depression and anxiety, particularly amongst housed Travellers, is much higher than the national average and results partly from the frequent evictions, constant harassment, multiple bereavements and physical health problems that many Gypsies and Travellers face.
On June 25th 2009 FFT hosted, in partnership with Rethink, an event on Gypsies and Travellers and Mental Health/Wellbeing, at Clair Hall in Haywards Heath. The event was very well attended with over 90 delegates from both statutory and voluntary organistions. Lunch was traditional Gypsy fare, while an acoustic band played Gypsy music. All the speakers were from a Travelling community and spoke movingly about their personal and professional experiences in mental health, highlighting the issues and making them ‘real’. We then had a series of lively workshops. The notes of this workshop can be found at the following link
Additional Resources
- You can also read ‘I know when it’s raining’ by Derbyshire Gypsy Liaison Group. Report of the Community – Led Research Project Focussing on the Emotional Health and Well-being. Needs of Romany Gypsies and Irish Travellers, 2008. Download it here.
- FFT’s Health and Wellbeing leaflets
These are leaflets on mental health and Wellbeing with advice and information on topics like bad nerves, stress, sleep problems and medication. They are easy to read and will help people who suffer from bad nerves, and their families.
- : This is something that many women go through after they have a baby
Stress: this is for anyone who wants to cut down their stress
Counselling: Counselling is a chance for people to change how they feel and live better
Bad nerves: What are bad nerves and what can I do to help myself or another person?
Bereavement: The death of someone close can be very hard. Here is some information to help you get through it
Sleep: This is for people who have problems with their sleep
Eating problems: What are the signs of an eating problem, why do people get one, and what can you do about it
Anti-depressants: What to know about going on anti-depressants and coming off them
- Wellbeing CD
This is a perfect CD for anyone who wants to know more wellbeing and mental health. Each track is a conversation between a Traveller and a Wellbeing practitioner, and the topics covered are: Sleeping problems, Bi Polar, Antidepressants, Eating Problems, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Baby Blues, Depression, Self Harm. This CD gives explanations for the mental health problems, and suggestions about what to do if you or a loved one is in need of advice or help. Price is £2.50
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- Food and Moods
This booklet provides simple information on how to feel better by eating the right foods. This is free for Gypsies and Travellers, and £5 per copy plus P&P (£1) for non-Travellers.
- Sticks and Stones
We strongly recommend you watch “Sticks and Stones”, a DVD made by young Gypsies and Travellers that mental health issues and is a really good introductory resource if you are keen to share some of the learning with colleagues or teams. By East Sussex County Council Traveller Education Service, £14.00
