The Stigma Around Mental Health

Breaking The Stigma
Around Mental Health

By: Fatima Harrie
Introduction
What is mental Why is it important What is mental
health? to address this health stigma?
issue?
It is a negative and
Addressing the issue will
prejudiced attitude or
Mental health is a state of ensure that individuals with
stereotype that leads to the
“emotional, psychological, mental health challenges
discrimination of
and social well-being”. receive proper support,
marginalized individuals
understanding, and access to
with mental health issues.
resources for recovery and
well-being.
The Prevalence Of Mental Health Issues
● All around the world, mental health remains a serious issue.
● According to a study by Our World in Data, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men will experience
major depression in their lives.
● It is important to address that this is a very rough estimate, as the stigma around mental
health issues keeps people from feeling comfortable reporting symptoms.
The Types Of Mental Health Stigma
Social Stigma
This is the negative attitudes and stereotypes that society itself holds
towards individuals. Examples include blaming and isolating individuals for
their condition, as well as labelling them as “crazy”.
Structural Stigma
This is the systematic discrimination that people with mental health issues
may face in various parts of life. They could be affected in healthcare,
education, employment, and housing. Negative effects include limited access
to care, discrimination, and unequal opportunities.
Self-Stigma
This occurs when the stigma is internalized, leading to shame, low
self-esteem and reduced self worth. They may experience feeling hopeless
and the need to hide their condition due to fearing judgement.
Consequences Of Stigma
● Deters individuals from seeking help.
○ Prolonged suffering and delayed treatment.
● Causes isolation from friends and family
○ Can worsen condition
● Strains relationships with loved ones
○ They may not understand the individual’s mental health challenges, therefore being unable to
support them.
● Social Exclusion
● Lower Treatment Rates
○ Discourages individuals from seeking help
● Reduced productivity at work
○ Impacts society economically.
Break the Stigma

Around Mental
A video by The Children's Hospital Colorado (2017) on mental health stigma consequences: Health
Media’s Role in Stigma
It is important to acknowledge that social media is a major contributor to mental health stigma.
● Harmful stereotypes are often depicted.
○ However, media has shown positive, sensitive, and accurate portrayals of mental health issues.
■ This positively fosters empathy and understanding!
● Responsibility
○ Media outlets should take special care to take responsibility for the content they produce and
the impact it creates.
● Media Literacy
○ Consumers of media should also take the time to critically assess what they see online in TV
shows, movies, etc.
■ You shouldn’t believe everything you see online.
Personal Responsibility
● Self-reflection
○ What are your personal beliefs and attitudes about mental health?
○ Do you approach mental health challenges with empathy and and understanding?
○ Are you compassionate towards anyone you know who may be struggling?
If you answered in a way that contradicts the previous slides, it is important to recognize the negative impact you
potentially have on others and yourself.
● Learn to be an ally
○ Not only should you support family, friends, and peers, but don’t hesitate to reach out yourself.
● Raise awareness
○ Use your voice and influence to promote awareness and fight stigma in your community!
Changing The Narrative
Changing the conversation around mental health is crucial.
● It dismantles harmful stereotypes, supports a supportive environment, and ultimately improves the
quality of life for those facing mental health challenges.
● Small actions, such as posting supportive content on social media, supporting friends, and
volunteering have the potential to create a big impact.
We should make our best effort to try to be part of the solution, and try to change the way that society
views mental health.
“‘Positive vibes only’ Isn’t a A video by the provincial health authority

thing. Humans have a wide of Canada, highlighting ways to challenge
range of emotions and that's the stigma (2021): Stigma: Stories of
OK.” Experience (UNITE Project - Video 1)
- Molly Bahr, LMHC
Seeking Help
● Recognizing the signs: Change in behavior, mood, or daily routine.
● Encouraging professional help: Many mental health conditions are treatable, so there should be no
shame in reaching out to someone who can help.
○ Consider reaching out to a therapist, counselor, or psychiatrist.
○ Regarding confidentiality, mental health professions are held by strict ethical codes to protect
their patients privacy.
● Hotlines and resources:
○ National Mental Health Hotline: 866-903-3787
○ Many resources are provided locally, so do your research to inform yourself on your options for
immediate support.
● Supportive Networks: Building a supportive network in your community is important. Be there for each
other, and remind your peers that they aren’t alone.
○ Listening to someone's problems can go a long way and make a world of a difference.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important to address mental health stigma to:
● Create a more compassionate and understanding society.
● Encourage individuals to seek help when needed.
● Reduce discrimination caused by stigma, promoting overall well-being and mental health.
Addressing stigma can be done by:
● Engaging in open conversation about mental health.
● Challenging stereotypes.
● Supporting loved ones.
● Getting involved in your community.
To make a better future, reducing stigma would:
● Increase the amount of people receiving the help and support they need.
● Increase the acceptance of mental health as a part of overall health.
● Reduce fear and discrimination surrounding mental health issues.
● Build stronger communities based on empathy and understanding.
Citations
SAMHSA. “What Is Mental Health?” Www.samhsa.gov, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 24 Apr.
2023, www.samhsa.gov/mental-health.
Ritchie, Hannah, et al. “Mental Health.” Our World in Data, Apr. 2018, ourworldindata.org/mental-health.
Better Health Channel. “Stigma, Discrimination and Mental Illness.” Better Health Channel, Victoria State Government, 18 Sept.
2015, www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/servicesandsupport/stigma-discrimination-and-mental-illness.
Borenstein, Jeffrey. “Stigma, Prejudice and Discrimination against People with Mental Illness.” American Psychiatric Association,
American Psychiatric Association, Aug. 2020, www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/stigma-and-discrimination.
Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. “Reducing Stigma.” Www.tn.gov,
www.tn.gov/behavioral-health/stigma.html.
“Break the Stigma around Children’s Mental Health.” Www.youtube.com,
www.youtube.com/watch?v=49mfPFTZsHs&ab_channel=Children%27sHospitalColorado. Accessed 27 Sept. 2023.
“Challenging Stigma through Storytelling.” Www.bcmhsus.ca,
www.bcmhsus.ca/about/news-stories/stories/challenging-stigma-through-storytelling.

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Breaking The Stigma

Around Mental Health

Break the Stigma

“‘Positive vibes only’ Isn’t a A video by the provincial health authority

American Psychiatric Association, Aug. 2020, www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/stigma-and-discrimination.

“Break the Stigma around Children’s Mental Health.” Www.youtube.com,

www.youtube.com/watch?v=49mfPFTZsHs&ab_channel=Children%27sHospitalColorado. Accessed 27 Sept. 2023.

“Challenging Stigma through Storytelling.” Www.bcmhsus.ca,

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