Mental Health Stigma

In a world that is continuously changing, our understanding of mental health should progress at the same pace. However, despite the tremendous strides made in various fields, the stigma surrounding mental health remains a formidable barrier. Stigma is influenced by cultural and contextual value systems that change over time. According to Subu, et al., (2021) “mental health stigma is defined as a disgrace, social disapproval or social discrediting of individuals with a mental health problem”. This blog post aims to shed light on the pervasive issue of mental health stigma and explore ways in which we can collectively work toward undoing these barriers. The

Types and Impact of Stigma:

Mental health stigma manifests in various forms, from self-stigma, public stigma, professional stigma, and institutional stigma to outright discrimination. Self-stigma refers to the negative self-connotation an individual has regarding their mental health. Self-stigma is often influenced by external factors and attitudes of those surrounding the individual. Self-stigma is often related to poor outcomes, such as failure to get treatment, disempowerment, reduced self-confidence, and a reduced quality of life (Subu, et al., 2021).

Societal stigma or public stigma is the negative attitude toward those with mental health conditions that the general public holds (Subu et al., 2021). Public stigma is generally based on fear, prejudice, and misconceptions regarding mental health conditions and how those with mental health conditions conduct themselves, function in life and react to others. This societal stigma often discourages individuals from seeking help, leading to delayed or untreated mental health conditions. This delay can exacerbate symptoms and contribute to a cycle of suffering, impacting not only individuals but also their families and communities.

Professional stigmas are when healthcare professionals hold demeaning or negative attitudes toward their patients. In regards to mental health stigma, this is often because of a lack of education, fear, or a misunderstanding of the causes and symptoms of mental illness (Subu et al., 2021). At times professional stigma arises because the healthcare professional has experienced stigma from other healthcare professionals or the public because of their work and connection with mental health. This type of stigma can affect an individual with mental health conditions in areas other than mental such as their physical health.

Myths and Misconceptions:

One of the key contributors to mental health stigma is the prevalence of myths and misconceptions. It's crucial to debunk these falsehoods and replace them with accurate information. Mental health conditions are not a sign of weakness or a lack of character. Mental health conditions affect everyone even children and older adults. People with mental health problems are not always violent and unpredictable, in fact only 3-5% of violent acts can be attributed to those with serious mental illness. If a person has a mental illness they can hold a job, especially if the mental illness is well managed (MentalHealth.org, 2019). Many factors contribute to mental health problems, not just a person being weak or having character flaws.

Language Matters:

The words we use can either spread or challenge mental health stigma. It's important to choose language that promotes understanding and empathy. Phrases like "crazy," "psycho," “loony”, or "insane" only serve to further isolate and marginalize individuals experiencing mental health challenges. By using respectful and inclusive language, we contribute to a more compassionate society.

• “Died by suicide” instead of “committed suicide”

• “Survived a suicide” instead of “successful or failed attempt”

• “Use or misuse” instead of “abuse”

• “In treatment” instead of “getting clean”

• “Alcohol use disorder” instead of “alcoholic”

• “Substance use disorder” instead of “addiction”

• “Addiction-free” instead of “sober”

• “Individual with alcohol use disorder” instead of “alcoholic”

• “Individual with substance disorder” instead of “junkie” or “addict.” (Fuller, 2022)

Reducing Mental Health Stigma:

Breaking the silence surrounding mental health is a powerful tool in dismantling stigma. This can be done by sharing personal stories to help humanize mental health struggles. Also encouraging open conversations about mental health at home, in schools, and the workplace will help produce supportive environments where people will feel comfortable seeking help.

Education is a powerful tool in dispelling myths and fostering empathy. Education regarding mental health should take place in schools, workplaces, and communities to help ensure the community is receiving accurate information, reducing stigma, and promoting mental well-being. The media can assist in educating the public. Making sure the media is promoting accurate and positive representations of mental health in movies, TV shows, and other media platforms will help contribute to changing public perceptions.

Advocacy and support for mental health initiatives are essential for creating change. Supporting organizations that strive to promote mental health awareness, research, or accessibility to mental health services can assist in breaking down barriers. By investing in mental health infrastructure, we create a society where everyone can access the care and support they need.

Overcoming mental health stigma requires a collective effort. Together we must challenge stereotypes, be open to having conversations, promote education, and support mental health initiatives to help create a world where people feel empowered to seek help for mental health conditions without fear and judgment. If you have a mental health condition and desire to have non-judgmental care and want a provider who will listen to your mental health concerns please contact Amanda at 316-779-2560.

References

Fuller, K. (2022, January 18). Stigmatizing language in mental health and addiction: How words can affect someone's mental health and be a barrier to treatment. Retrieved from Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/happiness-is-state-mind/202201/stigmatizing-language-in-mental-health-and-addiction#:~:text=For%20example%2C%20many%20generations%20have,media%20and%20in%20everyday%20language.

MentalHealth.org. (2019). Mental health myths and facts. Retrieved from MentalHealth.org: https://www.mentalhealth.org/basics/myths-facts

Subu, M. A., Wati, D. F., Netrida, N., Priscilla, V., Diaz, J. M., Abraham, M. S., . . . Al-Yateem, N. (2021, October 18). Types of stigma experienced by patients with mental illness and mental health nurses in Indonesia: a qualitative content analysis. International Journal of Mental Health Systems, 15(77), 2-12. doi:https://doi.org/10.1186/s13033-021-00502-x