New research from the UK presented at the European Respiratory Society (ERS) Congress 2026 in Barcelona has revealed a significant gap in public understanding of the connection between chronic respiratory disease and mental health. The findings, shared by Dr. Devi Sundar, Director of Integrative Health and researcher at Tele-Therapies Ltd, were based on the Breath & Mind national survey conducted in October 2025 with 2,173 UK adults.
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The survey indicated that 69% of respondents reported low or no awareness regarding the link between chronic respiratory conditions and mental health. Dr. Sundar's presentation, titled “Emotional Breathlessness and Mental-Health Awareness in Chronic Respiratory Disease,” explored the psychosocial aspects of chronic respiratory illnesses and their consequences for public health and respiratory services.
Dr. Sundar noted that limited awareness might hinder individuals from recognizing their need for psychological support or discussing their experiences with healthcare providers. Awareness levels varied significantly among different demographic groups. For example, only 38% of separated or divorced respondents and those not in employment were aware, compared to 28% among men. Among age groups, awareness was highest at 36% in those aged 55 and over and lowest at 25% among 35–44-year-olds.
The research also highlighted disparities in awareness by region, with 27% in the South East and 37% in Wales. These findings underline the influence of the social environment on managing chronic respiratory diseases, with factors such as fear, stigma, and psychological challenges impacting treatment engagement and rehabilitation participation.
Dr. Sundar emphasized that healthcare systems need to see the person behind the illness. The survey report outlines five key priorities: integrating routine mental health screening into respiratory assessments, creating psychosocially integrative pulmonary rehabilitation programs, providing trauma-informed training for clinicians, launching a national awareness campaign about emotional breathlessness, and incorporating psychosocial support into community services. Implementing these measures could potentially save the NHS between £100 to £500 million annually.
The research builds on Dr. Sundar’s previous parliamentary involvement, including a Written Parliamentary Question submitted on July 10, 2025, regarding integrated mental health support for individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Recent government responses have indicated ongoing commitment to enhancing respiratory care.
During a session at the congress on September 9, 2026, the psychological and social burdens accompanying respiratory diseases were also discussed, emphasizing the often-invisible struggles of individuals dealing with these conditions. Dr. Sundar concluded by arguing for a compassionate, stigma-aware approach to respiratory care that values lived experiences and promotes patient dignity.
Tele-Therapies advocates for closer integration of respiratory and mental health services to facilitate person-centered care.