Unfortunately, stigma surrounding mental health is still common.
Research has shown that stigma is one of the leading risk factors contributing to poor mental health outcomes.
Stigma leads to delays in treatment.
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It also reduces the chances that a person with mental illness will receive appropriate and adequate care.
As a result, treatment has historically not always made scientific sense and has been brutal and inhumane.
Stigma has arisen out of fear and a lack of understanding.
It has persisted even with greater knowledge about the biochemical and genetic natures of different conditions.
The representation of mental illness in mass media can add to the stigma.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
While people have become more informed about mental disorders in general, stigma continues to be a reality.
How Common Is Stigma?
Perceived stigma leads to an internalized shame about having a mental illness.
It has been found in a long-term study that this sort of internalized stigma leads to poorer treatment outcomes.
Causes of Stigma
Mental health stigma has been attributed to a number of different factors.
For example, people with mental illness are often stereotyped as violent or unpredictable.
This lack of understanding contributes to poor perceptions about different mental illnesses and the people who experience these conditions.
Impact of Stigma
The consequences of stigma can be serious and devastating.
Some conditions may worsen over time without treatment, so failing to seek treatment ultimately worsens outcomes.
Stigma can also cause people to doubt themselves and their abilities to achieve their goals in life.
It can also lead to feelings of shame and even isolation.
It may make it harder for people to find jobs and adequate housing.
While stigma continues to exist, it can be eventually eliminated with greater education and awareness about mental illness.
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National Institute of Mental Health.Mental illness.
American Psychiatric Association.Stigma, prejudice and discrimination against people with mental illness.
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