Councillor Under Fire for Comparing Mental Health to 'Bad Back' of 21st Century
2025-02-10

BBC on MSN.com
A councillor has sparked controversy after likening mental health to the '21st Century version of the bad back', prompting advice on his language. The comment was made by Oliver Freeston, a Reform UK member of North East Lincolnshire Council, while chairing a health and adult social care scrutiny panel. This comparison has raised concerns about minimizing the severity of mental health issues, with many advocating for increased awareness and support for mental wellness, including stress management and anxiety treatment. The incident highlights the need for sensitive and informed discussions around mental health awareness.