London, Oct 9 : Sending cards and gifts to friends and family suffering with mental health problems may aid their recovery, say experts.

According to the Royal College of Psychiatrists, cards and gifts were a simple way to support people with mental illness.

The experts came to the conclusion after a poll of 131 mental health patients was carried out, reports The BBC.

The study showed over half did not receive any gifts or cards when they were ill. This compared to just a third who did not get presents the last time they were physically ill.

More than eight out of 10 of the people surveyed said receiving a ''get well soon'' card would help their recovery.

The college is launching two of its own gift cards with the greeting: "Thinking of you at this time. Hope things improve soon."

Dr Peter Byrne, chair of the college''s education committee, said: "I have worked in general and psychiatric hospitals for over 20 years, and there is no greater demonstration of the hidden prejudice against people with mental illness than the bedside lockers.

"In psychiatric units, there is barely a card or any other reminder that the outside world cares.

"People often don''t know what to do or say when a friend or relative is ill with a mental health problem - so they end up doing nothing." (ANI)