CONFRONTING THE STIGMA AROUND MENTAL HEALTH

Release date: November 20th, 2023

Writer: Joelle Viray

Editor: Aoife Crow, Si Ya Luo

INTRODUCTION

Mental health challenges are a global issue, impacting billions of people from various backgrounds and communities. These struggles are frequently exacerbated by a widespread issue—the stigma attached to mental illness—contributing to a reluctance in addressing mental health issues which further perpetuates the cycle of stereotypes and misconceptions that revolve around mental health. The ramifications of this avoidance are profound, impacting not only individual well-being but also impeding more extensive societal discussions about mental health.

TYPES OF STIGMA

Public Stigma: Involves society's negative attitudes and discriminatory behaviors towards individuals facing mental health challenges—a collective judgment that can make people hesitant to speak openly about their struggles

Self-stigma: Individuals who internalize negative beliefs and stereotypes about mental health, carrying the weight of societal judgments within themselves, leading to feelings of shame and reluctance to seek help

Structural Stigma: Embedded in institutional practices, structural stigma appears in policies or systems that may unintentionally discriminate against those with mental health issues, causing obstacles in various aspects of life due to systemic biases

Courtesy Stigma: Extends its reach to the loved ones of individuals facing mental health challenges, creating guilt by association, where friends or family members might also experience judgment and discrimination

Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Mental Health Week

Mental Health America

Navigating mental health challenges becomes even more complicated when we consider the intertwining dynamics of public stigma, self-stigma, structural stigma, and courtesy stigma. Whether these negative impressions originate from societal attitudes, internal beliefs, institutional biases, or judgments affecting close relationships, these forms of stigma collectively contribute to the vast climate of hesitation in seeking help. This combined force of stigma creates a significant barrier, causing individuals to guard their mental health struggles and avoid seeking the necessary support. To break this cycle, a globally unified effort is needed to dismantle these stigmas, ultimately promoting a more supportive, understanding, and inclusive attitude toward mental health.

THE PROBLEM

Mental health is a significant issue across the globe, with nearly half of the world population expected to grapple with mental health issues at some point in their lives. Presently, one in five individuals is either undergoing or expecting mental health difficulties within a given year (Wilson, 2023). However, the reluctance to seek assistance stems from the pervasive societal stigma associated with mental health. In fact, an alarming statistic reveals that 90% of adults avoid seeking treatment due to this apprehension of being stigmatized, demonstrating the deeply ingrained misconceptions and negative attitudes surrounding mental health (Mental Health Foundation 2020).

Group therapy session

Global Conference on Public Health and Epidemiology Science (GCPHE)

Furthermore, the lack of awareness and education about mental health issues perpetuates the overall pessimistic opinion surrounding mental health. Labels and judgments not only sustain stereotypes but also create divisions and a sense of isolation in communities. This separation creates a dichotomy of "us and them", leading to social estrangement and hindering the full participation of people with mental health problems in society (Wilson 2023). The effects of stigma manifest in subtle or unintentional discriminatory acts known as microaggressions, making it more challenging for individuals who are part of marginalized social groups (Wilson 2023). Stigma results in negative self-beliefs, feelings of loneliness, avoidance of treatment, and unfair treatment in various aspects of life, including employment and the criminal justice system. It is crucial to address these false attitudes through open discussions, public education, and the promotion of accurate depictions of mental health issues in the media and entertainment industry.

STRATEGIES TO COMBAT STIGMA

Addressing the issue of stigma requires a universal approach, whether through education, support, or the workplace. Given that the workplace is a significant part of an individual's life, it can play a crucial role in shaping attitudes toward mental health. Simple yet effective solutions can be implemented. This includes encouraging open communication, avoiding derogatory language, and providing response training (Wilson, 2023).

Public education is instrumental in effectively dispelling myths and misunderstandings surrounding mental health. Initiatives like PSA campaigns and educational programs not only address misconceptions but also create an environment where individuals feel safe sharing their mental health experiences. Such actions help break down stereotypes and raise empathy within communities (Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, 2022).

While workplace strategies and public education are essential, the personal aspect of overcoming stigma also plays a crucial role. Opening up about one's mental health struggles becomes an act of courage that can inspire and empower others to do the same. When leaders and respected individuals share their experiences, it creates a culture of openness and acceptance, contributing to the reduction of stigma associated with mental health challenges (Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, 2022).

FINAL WORDS

A collective effort is crucial in order to prioritize mental health within communities. We must bind together to provide support and encourage individuals to share their mental health experiences openly. Addressing this global challenge requires more than a mere suggestion: It demands a call for everyone to actively participate in creating an environment where mental health is not only prioritized but also destigmatized. This unified effort is essential to foster a society that not only values but deeply respects mental well-being as a fundamental aspect of our collective health and happiness

Mental Health America Annual Conference

REFERENCES

Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety. (2022, May 20). Mental health - recognizing and addressing stigma at work. https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/psychosocial/mh/mentalhealth_stigma.html

Government of Canada. (2023, September 5). Stigma around drug use. https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/opioids/stigma.html

Haddad, P., & Haddad, I. (2015, March 3). Mental Health Stigma. The British Association for Psychopharmacology. https://www.bap.org.uk/articles/mental-health-stigma/

John Hopkins Medicine. (n.d.). Stigma of Addiction. Johns Hopkins Medicine. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/stigma-of-addiction/

Wilson, C. R. (2023, October 5). Understanding Mental Health Stigma: 17 ways to reduce it. PositivePsychology.com. https://positivepsychology.com/mental-health-stigma/

Zoppi, L. (2020, November 10). What is mental health stigma?. Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/mental-health-stigma

Google Sites

Report abuse