Culture

Gerry Farrell exposes enduring stigma and burnout in advertising despite growing mental health awareness

Friday, 30 May 2025 12:21AM UTC

Gerry Farrell reveals his personal battle with depression amid a culture in advertising that often prioritises appearances over genuine support, highlighting the persistent stigma and systemic failings that keep many suffering in silence despite increased mental health initiatives.

In a candid reflection on mental health struggles within the advertising industry, Gerry Farrell, writing for The Drum, opens up about his own experience with depression and burnout. He recalls a particularly low moment: sitting on the edge of his bed, feeling like a "concrete statue," and grappling with the realization that mental health challenges can affect anyone, irrespective of familial history. Farrell, who initially believed that he was immune to these issues due to his mother's bipolarity and his sisters' similar battles, was struck by the harsh reality that mental illness can be unpredictable and indiscriminate.

Despite growing awareness around mental health in the workplace, there remains a profound stigma surrounding open discussions about psychological well-being. Many employees, including Farrell, have observed that while physical ailments—illustrated through a theatrical cast or injury—invite empathy and concern, mental health crises often lead to isolation and judgement. According to a survey conducted by the National Alliance on Mental Illness, while 74% of employees feel it is acceptable to discuss mental health issues, only about 58% are comfortable discussing their own due to fears of stigma and judgement. This disconnect indicates a significant gap between the discourse around mental health and the reality faced by individuals struggling with it.

Farrell’s experience at an agency that boasted mental health support proved to be emblematic of a broader issue within many workplaces. Despite the existence of policies purportedly aimed at supporting those with mental health challenges, like the one he encountered at SeeMe, a Scottish charity, he found the actual environment disheartening. His line manager's preference for a facade of normalcy translated into a lack of genuine support, further exacerbating his struggles. It is reflective of findings from the Global Business Collaboration for Better Workplace Mental Health, which suggest that nearly a third of employees would not disclose mental health issues to their supervisors, fearing discrimination and a lack of effective support.

This issue of burnout is particularly poignant in advertising—a field notorious for its high-pressure environment where deadlines and expectations can be overwhelming. Farrell's assertion that "advertising causes burnout" resonates with a broader narrative surrounding workplace culture; as the post-pandemic landscape continues to evolve, employers are increasingly recognising mental health as a critical concern in retaining talent. Employers have begun to offer initiatives such as mental health days and teletherapy, yet the stigma associated with mental health, especially amid a competitive job market, continues to serve as a barrier for many.

Efforts to normalise mental health discussions are gaining traction, thanks in part to initiatives like the All Inclusive: Mental Health event organised by the Scottish government. Such gatherings allow professionals from varying backgrounds to share their stories of struggle and recovery, thereby fostering a culture of openness. Reflecting on a serendipitous encounter with a former colleague, Farrell highlights a poignant moment of connection that underscores the importance of shared experiences in destigmatising mental health conversations. The colleague’s unvoiced struggles for two decades serve as a timely reminder that even amidst growing awareness, many still suffer in silence, desperate for validation and support.

However, for meaningful change to occur within workplaces, a collective effort to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health is essential. As highlighted by experts, superficial measures fall short; organisations must foster an environment where conversations about mental health become standard practice. This requires not just policies, but training for managers and a shift towards genuine empathy and understanding. Research indicates that well-trained leaders who can navigate difficult discussions are crucial to creating a supportive workplace culture.

Through his journey, Farrell has discovered effective coping strategies and readily available resources, such as mindfulness apps and mental health hotlines, which have played a significant role in his recovery. He urges that an awareness of mental health support options and a willingness to engage with them can empower individuals experiencing similar struggles to take proactive steps towards their well-being. The way forward lies in open dialogue and comprehensive support systems, ultimately enabling a transformative shift in how mental health is perceived and addressed in the workplace.

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Source: Noah Wire Services

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Mental health
Burnout
Advertising industry
Workplace wellbeing
Stigma