MILLIONS of Brits are putting their health at risk due to a tight-lipped mentality, a study has revealed.

When it comes to issues around mental health, weight or disability, 36 per cent of adults say they're 'too embarrassed' to seek help.

Other taboo topics kept off the agenda are menstruation, old-age, personal hygiene and menopause.

The study of 1,016 adults also found 23 per cent are concerned about being judged, with 18 per cent saying they were brought up to keep personal matters to themselves.

This is despite celebrities including Lady Gaga, Davina McCall and James Argent opening up about their health concerns.

When it comes to confiding in people, a fifth worry they are unable to confide in others and one in 10 claim to have confided in someone in the past and been hurt by their response.

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The figures were revealed as part of an international study by hygiene and health company Essity.

A spokesman said: “The sad reality is that although we live in a society where the majority of people try to encourage openness and acceptance, there is still a long way to go in order to break down the barriers that prevent open and honest conversations.

“Many people fear being treated differently, whether they have a mental or physical ailment.

“And unfortunately, there is still a lot of education needed. 

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"It can be so easy to judge others on something you don’t understand but encouraging people to talk, particularly with a healthcare professional, is the first positive step you can take.”

Data revealed that some Brits have been so embarrassed about health conditions, that they have in turn, missed days of work or school.

It emerged adults are most likely to take time off due to mental health – with one in four needing to take a break to look after their own well-being.

Around 12 per cent of those quizzed said they had skipped school or work because of their period – while one in ten said they have done this for skin issues like eczema.

For those who do opt to speak to someone else, 45 per cent said they chatted to a partner, with 30 per cent saying that they turn to their mum.

More than a third would rather talk to a health professional than a friend, a sibling – or even dear old dad (nine per cent).

After opening up, a quarter felt immediately relieved, while 23 per cent were less worried.

However, not everyone experienced feelings of positivity – sadly, 14 per cent felt they were burdening others, and 11 per cent felt embarrassed.

While one in 20 were left feeling mortified.

To reduce the shame and reluctance of discussing health and hygiene topics such as menopause, incontinence and menstruation, adults believe education should start early.

More than half think it starts with parents being open with their children, while 46 per cent think schools should create spaces for dialogue and training.

While 23 per cent think businesses should take responsibility for their staff through awareness, knowledge and support.

And 35 per cent said it is down to the government to provide more information campaigns, accessible to all.

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The spokesman for Essity added: “It is important for brands like Bodyform and TENA to try and push the boundaries and normalise the conversation around periods and menstruation for many.

“But this research tells us that embarrassment is still a major issue and we need to keep working to ensure more people have the confidence to talk about their wellbeing without fear.”

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