To think people sometimes politicise mental health?

[AdeptEagle]

It feels like mental health has become a political talking point rather than something people genuinely want to address. Government, corporations, and even individuals seem to use it selectively - sometimes to push an agenda, sometimes as a buzzword, and other times to deflect from deeper issues.

For example, politicians talk about “mental health awareness” but cut NHS funding for services. Employers encourage “mental wellbeing” while overworking staff. And online, people sometimes weaponise mental health discussions to win arguments rather than actually support one another.

AIBU to think that, while mental health is obviously important, it’s also been co-opted in ways that aren’t always helpful?

The issues you raise re politicians and employers talking about "mental health awareness" without providing any real support are something I've seen referred to as well-washing or wellbeing-washing. An MP being challenged on lack of mental health services can say "we need to do more to raise awareness", because it doesn't really mean anything and doesn't commit them to actually funding services.

Similarly with employers, a lot of them will offer a useless employee assistance helpline, or will give employees access to a mindfulness/wellbeing app rather than make any material changes like increased pay, more flexible working, the option to work from home etc.