Survey Reveals Only a Third of Brits Disclose Health Issues to New Partners Early
A recent survey of 2,000 British adults has uncovered that only one-third of individuals would reveal a health condition to a new partner within the first month of dating. The research, commissioned by AXA Health as part of its Cover That Cares campaign, highlights significant hesitancy in discussing personal health matters in romantic relationships.
Reluctance to Share Health Concerns
According to the findings, a mere 33% of respondents feel comfortable disclosing health issues early in a relationship. Alarmingly, one in 20 adults stated they would only mention a health problem if it became absolutely necessary. This reluctance extends beyond romantic partners, with 78% of those surveyed preferring to share health concerns with a friend first, rather than family members or new partners.
Top Health Issues Kept Secret
- Incontinence (22%)
- Depression (19%)
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (18%)
These conditions topped the list of issues people are most likely to hide from others, including friends, family, and colleagues. The study also revealed that a quarter of respondents would feel uncomfortable disclosing a cancer diagnosis to a new partner, underscoring the deep-seated fears surrounding health disclosures.
Barriers to Open Communication
The primary reasons for not disclosing health issues include a fear of being judged (51%), embarrassment (35%), and fear of rejection (29%). This has led to 14% of individuals with health conditions avoiding pursuing relationships altogether. Mental health remains a particularly challenging topic, with 39% feeling uncomfortable discussing depression and 35% hesitant to talk about anxiety with loved ones.
Heather Smith, CEO of AXA Health, emphasized the importance of open dialogue: "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."
Positive Outcomes of Disclosure
Despite the initial hesitation, 88% of adults believe discussing health issues with loved ones is crucial, as it allows for better support and planning. For those who do open up, the outcomes are often positive. The survey found that 39% felt a sense of relief after disclosing their health issues to a partner, while 43% felt supported and 35% felt reassured.
Additionally, 29% of partners were glad about the honesty, and 27% reacted calmly. A quarter of partners even took the initiative to research the condition to offer better support and empathy. However, 15% of those who avoided telling their partner later regretted not being honest sooner.
Comprehensive List of Hidden Health Issues
The research identified a wide range of health issues that Brits are likely to conceal from others. The top 30 include:
- Incontinence
- Depression
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Erectile Dysfunction
- Chronic infections such as UTIs
- Panic attacks
- HPV virus
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Hair loss
- Work-related stress
- Neurodivergence (e.g., ADHD, OCD, Autism)
- Crohn’s Disease
- PMS or PMDD
- Cancer
- Eczema
- Endometriosis
- Heart condition
- Psoriasis
- Chronic Fatigue/ME
- Chronic pain condition
- Joint issues
- Migraines
- Acne or rosacea
- Asthma
- Coeliac Disease
- Fibromyalgia
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Hearing loss
- Type 1 Diabetes
- Vision impairment
Heather Smith concluded: "For some people, it can be difficult to open up. 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 judgment. At AXA Health, we are here to listen, support, and care for our members at every stage of their healthcare journey."
