(MENAFN) Most people in the UK significantly underestimate the impact of severe mental illness (SMI) on life expectancy. New research indicates that while the public believes SMI shortens lives by around seven years, the actual reduction is closer to 15 to 20 years, according to reports.

The study, conducted by a coalition of health organizations and research institutes, describes this as a “hidden health crisis” affecting over half a million Britons living with conditions such as schizophrenia, psychosis, and bipolar disorder. Only 11% of survey participants correctly identified the true scale of the mortality gap.

In reality, SMI reduces lifespan more than diabetes, severe obesity, or smoking, which generally cut life expectancy by up to 10 years. A survey of 2,000 adults also revealed widespread misconceptions about the main causes of early death among people with SMI. Half of respondents incorrectly believed suicide was the leading cause, although it accounts for roughly 9% of excess deaths. Few recognized that cardiovascular and respiratory diseases are the primary contributors.

Awareness of inequalities related to SMI was similarly low. Only 14% of respondents knew it is more prevalent among Black African and Black Caribbean populations in the UK, and less than half acknowledged its association with higher deprivation and urban living.

Despite these gaps in understanding, there is considerable public support for improving outcomes. Two-thirds (67%) of participants said better healthcare is needed to increase life expectancy for those living with SMI. However, opinion is split on whether such improvements are realistic or should be a top NHS priority.

The study also points to changing perceptions of health priorities in the UK, with mental health and cancer now seen as the nation’s most pressing health challenges, each cited by approximately 45% of the public.

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