Stigmatization of Mental Health Issues

According to the Mayo Clinic, stigmatization of mental health issues can cause harmful effects, including: 

  • Reluctance to seek help or treatment
  • Lack of understanding by family, friends, or co-workers
  • Fewer opportunities for work, school or social activities
  • Trouble finding housing
  • Bullying, violence or harassment
  • Health insurance that does not adequately cover mental illness treatment

Stigma “almost always stem(s) from a lack of understanding rather than information based on facts,” according to the Mayo Clinic. 

Reference:
The Mayo Clinic Staff. (2019) Mental health: Overcoming the stigma of mental illness. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mental-illness/in-depth/mental-health/art-20046477 February 11, 2019.

How Can I Cope With Stigma?

According to the Mayo Clinic,

  • Get treatment
  • Don’t let stigma create self-doubt or shame
  • Don’t isolate yourself
  • Don’t equate yourself with your illness 
  • Join a support group
  • Get help at school 
  • Speak out against stigma

Reference:
The Mayo Clinic Staff. (2019) Mental health: Overcoming the stigma of mental illness. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mental-illness/in-depth/mental-health/art-20046477 February 11, 2019.

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