Six in 10 people would tell a family member first about a health issue.
This is according to a survey of 2,000 people by Axa Health which also found that only a third of people would tell a new partner about a health issue within the first month of dating and more people would share health concerns with a friend, over a family member.
The poll found that one in 20 would only discuss a significant issue early in a relationship if it became ‘necessary’, but one in 10 said they would feel comfortable talking about their health woes as early as the first date.
Conditions kept from loves ones
Incontinence ranked as the top issue people were most likely to keep from others, be it friends, family or colleagues (22%), along with depression (19%) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) (18%).
Family first
The research, commissioned by the insurer 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 that 88% of all adults polled think being honest about health issues with loved ones is important and 62% would reveal a health issue to their family first.
Reasons given for turning to relatives included the fact they can offer support (59%), deserve to know (54%) and it is easier to make a plan with them (42%).
Close friends (78%) outranked family as people they have opened up to, including siblings (61%) and parents (59%).
Discussing depression
But for some, mental health continues to be a difficult topic to talk about. Many did not feel comfortable discussing depression (39%) and anxiety (35%) with their loved ones. Though those facing fertility challenges also struggled to open up (30%).
The research also found that of 66% of those polled who suffer from a health condition, more than one in 20 (6%) would be unlikely to tell a new partner about it.
Fear of being judged
Elaborating on the reasons why, a fear of being judged (51%) was cited as the most common reason, followed by embarrassment (35%) and feeling rejected (29%).
However, 14% of those with health issues have even avoided pursuing a relationship completely as a result of their condition.
Feeling relieved
Of those who had kept a health condition from a new partner, 15% went on to regret not being honest.
For those who did open up to a partner, 43% felt supported and 39% relieved.
Similarly, the study found their other half was happy they had been honest (29%) and 27% reacted in a calm manner.
Good to talk
Heather Smith, CEO of Axa Health (pictured), 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,” Smith said.
“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.”
Though Smith conceded that 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,” Smith continued.
“At Axa Health we are here to listen, support and care for our members at every stage of their healthcare journey.”