Almost one in four people believe that those with mental health problems are not trustworthy, while at least one in three people admit they would not treat someone with a mental health problem the same as they treat others, a survey has shown.

The results were released by St Patrick's Mental Health Services to coincide with this year's National Ploughing Championship in Co Laois. According to Sarah Surgenor of St Patrick's, the championships are a ‘big part' of the service's advocacy calendar.

"Last year we gave advice to over 1,000 people and this year we aim to raise that number. The Ploughing provides us with an ideal platform to improve public understanding of mental health and illness," she noted.

The survey of 230 people was carried out at last year's event and it revealed that 20% of people would not willingly accept someone with a mental health problem as a close friend.

It also found that 49% of people would not feel comfortable hiring a person with a mental health problem.

"As a result of the survey findings, we are at the National Ploughing Championships again this year to promote our free and confidential Mental Health Support and Information Service. It provides easily accessible free professional advice, guidance and support to help people manage mental health issues," explained the service's CEO, Paul Gilligan.

One in four people in Ireland is affected by mental health problems, yet many still find it difficult to talk about this or seek help. However, help is available, insisted Tom Maher, director of services at St Patrick's.

"Help is there, even if it's a free assessment in one of our Dean Clinics or a phone call to our support and information line," he said.

St Patrick's Support and Information Service is a free telephone and email support service available to all members of the public. Calls and emails are answered by experienced mental health nurses Monday to Friday, and there is an answering and call-back service outside of these hours.

It can be by contacted by calling (01) 249 3333 or emailing info@stpats.com

Meanwhile, anyone attending the Ploughing Championships can visit the St Patrick's stand at block one, row 23, stand 442.