On Air Mannin Line Andy Wint | Noon - 1:00pm

Alps tragedy prompts debate on mental health

Campaigners for better understanding of mental illness in the Island say they're dismayed at the branding of the pilot thought responsible for the Alps plane crash, as a 'madman'.

Investigators believe co pilot of the Germanwings plane Andreas Lubitz deliberately flew into a mountainside killing all 150 on board.

Global media reports have cited unresolved depression as among potential triggers - made worse by Lubitz's apparent fear of admitting to bosses he'd suffered a breakdown.

A UK tabloid headline 'Madman in the Cockpit' is seen by some as a distorted approach to reporting the disaster.

John Gregory is a long-time campaigner in the Island for better understanding of mental health issues and an end to stigma.  

He hopes the Alps tragedy will make employers think more seriously about mental illness among staff: 

 

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