Only a third of adults would disclose a health issue to a new partner within the first month of dating and more people chose to share their health concern with a friend, over a family member
A poll of 2,000 people found differing attitudes towards various illnesses, with one in 20 admitting they’d only discuss a significant issue early in a relationship if it became ‘necessary’. However, one in 10 said they would feel comfortable talking about their health woes as early as the first date.
Incontinence was the top issue people were most likely to keep from others, be it friends, family or colleagues (22 per cent), along with depression (19 per cent) and IBS (18 per cent).
The research, commissioned by AXA Health as part of its Cover That Cares campaign, found a quarter would feel uneasy telling a new partner if they were suffering from cancer. It also emerged 88 per cent of all adults polled think being honest about health issues with loved ones is important and 62 per cent would reveal a health issue to their family first.
Reasons for turning to relatives include the fact they can offer support (59 per cent), deserve to know (54 per cent) and it’s easier to make a plan with them (42 per cent).
Close friends (78 per cent) beat family as people they have opened up to, including siblings (61 per cent) and parents (59 per cent).
For some, mental health remains a difficult topic to talk about. Many don’t feel comfortable discussing depression (39%) and anxiety (35%) with their loved ones. Those facing fertility challenges also struggle to open up (30%).
The research also found that of 66 per cent of those polled who suffer from a health condition, more than one in 20 (six per cent) would be unlikely to tell a new partner about it.
A fear of being judged (51 per cent) was the most common reason, followed by embarrassment (35 per cent) and feeling rejected (29 per cent).
Worryingly, 14 per cent of those with health issues have even avoided pursuing a relationship completely as a result of their condition.
But of those who have kept a health condition from a new partner, 15 per cent went on to regret not being honest.
For those who did open up to a partner, 43 per cent felt supported and 39 per cent were relieved.
Similarly, the OnePoll study found their other half was happy they had been honest (29 per cent) and 27 per cent reacted in a calm manner.
Heather Smith, CEO of AXA Health, said: “Being able to talk about health conditions – whether it is to your family, your partner or your colleagues – is so important.
“Sharing worries and having someone listen to your concerns can help feel like a weight has been lifted and can make you feel less alone.
“Our research found that 43% of people felt supported and 35% reassured after sharing their health issues with a loved one. A quarter of partners began researching the condition to understand it better and to help offer the right support and be empathetic.
“For some people it can be difficult to open up.
“Over a third of people don’t want to be seen as a burden but by keeping quiet about their symptoms or conditions, they can’t benefit from a listening ear and the comfort of being able to speak openly without judgement.
“At AXA Health we are here to listen, support and care for our members at every stage of their healthcare journey.”
TOP 30 HEALTH ISSUES BRITS WOULD HIDE FROM OTHERS:
- Incontinence
- Depression
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Erectile Dysfunction
- Chronic infections such as UTI’s (Urinary Tract Infections)
- Panic attacks
- HPV virus
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Hair loss
- Work related stress
- Neurodivergence (e.g. ADHD, OCD, Autism)
- Crohn’s Disease
- PMS or PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder)
- Cancer
- Eczema
- Endometriosis
- Heart condition
- Psoriasis
- Chronic Fatigue /ME
- Chronic pain condition
- Joint issues
- Migraines
- Acne or rosacea
- Asthma
- Coeliac Disease
- Fibromyalgia
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Hearing loss
- Type 1 Diabetes
- Vision impairment
