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The Spread Of Stigma Surrounding Mental Illness

636 Words3 Pages

Mental health disorders are conditions that can change mood, thinking, and behavior and affect millions around the world. Nearly one in five adults in the United States struggle with mental illness (Njoku, 2022). While mental disorders are common, the lack of understanding and fear surrounding them creates a stigma many must face. This stigma has negative impacts on individuals and communities, including delayed treatment seeking, social isolation, and discrimination. This essay will cover the spread of stigma surrounding mental health disorders, its consequences, and strategies for reducing it.
The stigma surrounding mental health disorders can be traced back to many different factors. One of the most impactful sources of stigma is cultural …show more content…

People with mental disorders are commonly discriminated against because of the lack of mental health education. This discrimination leads to fewer opportunities in school, work, or social settings; social isolation; harassment; and trouble finding housing (Borenstein, 2020). Stigma can also cause many to avoid receiving proper treatment because of fear and concerns about being treated differently. In fact, over half of the people with mental illnesses do not get the help they need (Borenstein, 2020). This avoidance of treatment can cause symptoms to worsen and further difficulties with daily life, including unemployment and homelessness. According to the American Psychiatric Association, "self-stigma leads to… reduced hope, lower self-esteem, increased psychiatric symptoms, difficulties with social relationships, reduced likelihood of staying with treatment, [and] more difficulties at work" (Borenstein, 2020). Overall, discrimination and stigma can cause adverse effects in the lives of those with mental disorders, whether by worsening symptoms or reducing their quality of …show more content…

One of the best ways to reduce stigma is through proper education and awareness about mental health and mental health disorders. Talking openly about mental health, using destigmatizing language, and showing compassion and empathy for those with mental illness can help reduce mental health stigma (Greenstein, 2017). Many organizations are working to reduce mental health stigma, such as Bring Change to Mind, Stamp Out Stigma, "Make it Okay," the Mental Health Coalition, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (Borenstein, 2020). Not only must people stop mental health stigma, but the accessibility of mental health resources and accommodations must be improved. The availability of accessible mental health services, such as therapy and pharmaceuticals, must expand. Safe and supportive work and school environments must also grow in availability, which would encourage those struggling with mental health to receive the help they

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