Overcoming stigma and promoting mental health awareness
Written by Aimee Oliveri (Clinical Psychologist & Mental Health Content Creator) in Collaboration with Clarity Health Care
Mental health issues continue to be one of the most stigmatised illnesses. This stigma has led to prejudice, social exclusion, and the repression of psychiatric problems, hindering early diagnosis, treatment and mental health awareness. Nonetheless, there is a notable shift in the cultural perception of mental health, and while stigma remains a challenge, numerous initiatives are working to transform the landscape. In this blog post, we'll explore the significance of overcoming stigma and promoting mental health awareness. Let's break down the barriers and embrace open conversations about mental well-being.
Breaking Down the Walls: Understanding Stigma
What is Stigma?
Stigma is a set of negative and often uninformed beliefs or perceptions that a society or group of people have about something. In the context of mental health, it's the negative attitudes and misconceptions that people have about mental health, and those experiencing mental health challenges. These attitudes can be both external, coming from society, and internal, arising within individuals themselves.
The History of Mental Health Stigma
The history of mental health stigma is harrowing. For centuries, individuals experiencing mental health challenges were misunderstood and mistreated, excluded from society, locked up in cellars, and tortured due to ignorance and cruelty.
- In ancient times, mental illnesses were often attributed to supernatural causes, leading to stigmatisation and isolation.
- During the Middle Ages, people with mental health issues were thought to be possessed by demons and were subjected to harsh treatments.
- The 19th and early 20th centuries saw the rise of asylums, where individuals were often subjected to inhumane conditions.
- During the mid-20th century, the Nazi regime was responsible for the genocide and sterilisation of hundreds of thousands of psychiatric patients.
This history is a testament to the enduring struggle against mental health stigma, and although substantial progress has been made, the battle continues to this day.
Why Does Stigma Persist?
The enduring complexity of the stigma surrounding mental health is a topic worthy of its own blog post. Nevertheless, several key factors play a role in perpetuating mental health stigma:
1. Lack of Awareness: Many people still lack understanding of mental health issues, leading to misconceptions and stereotypes.
2. Fear of the Unknown: Fear and misunderstanding of mental illnesses can lead to stigmatisation, as people often fear what they don't understand.
3. Historical Precedents: The historical mistreatment and isolation of individuals with mental illnesses have left a lasting impact on society's perceptions.
4. Media Portrayals: Media often sensationalises and misrepresents mental health issues, reinforcing negative stereotypes.
5. Self-Stigma: Individuals with mental health conditions may internalise societal stigmatisation, leading to feelings of shame and self-doubt.
6. Fear of Disclosure: People may be reluctant to disclose their mental health issues due to concerns about how others will perceive and treat them.
7. Workplace Disadvantage: Stigma in professional settings can lead to discrimination, job loss, or difficulties in career advancement, further discouraging disclosure.
8. Stereotyping: People with mental health conditions are often unfairly stereotyped as violent, weak-willed, unpredictable and incapable of recovery.
9. Invisibility: Mental health conditions can't always be seen, making it easier for misconceptions and stereotypes to take root.
10. Dehumanising Language: Much of the terminology around mental health defines someone by their illness rather than who they are as an individual. For example, labelling someone as ‘psychotic’ rather than ‘a person experiencing psychosis.’
Overcoming Stigma: What Can We Do?
While progress has been made, there is still work to be done to combat the enduring stigma and promote greater understanding and acceptance of mental health challenges. So, what can we do to reduce stigma and enhance mental health awareness:
1. Education is Key: The first step in overcoming stigma is to educate ourselves and others. Knowledge is a powerful tool in dispelling myths.
2. Speak Openly: Encourage open and honest conversations about mental health. Share your experiences and encourage others to do the same. When we talk, we reduce the shame and fear associated with mental health.
3. Language Matters: Be mindful of the language you use. Avoid derogatory terms or phrases that perpetuate negative stereotypes. Instead, use respectful and person-first language when discussing mental health e.g., person with depression, rather than depressed person.
4. Support and Empathise: If someone confides in you about their mental health, offer support and empathy. Listen without judgment, and encourage them to seek professional help if needed.
5. Role Models: Support public figures who speak openly about their mental health struggles and recovery. Their stories can humanise mental health issues and reduce stigma.
6. Anti-Stigma Campaigns: Support and participate in anti-stigma campaigns and initiatives, such as Mental Health Awareness Month. These efforts raise awareness and challenge stereotypes.
7. Media and Entertainment: Encourage responsible portrayal of mental health in the media to reduce harmful stereotypes.
8. Equal Opportunity: Ensure that individuals with mental health conditions have equal access to education, employment, and housing. Advocate for policies and practices that prevent discrimination and promote equality.
Closing Thoughts
Overcoming stigma and promoting mental health awareness is not a task for the few but a mission for all. We all have a role to play in creating a world where mental health is understood, accepted, and supported. By breaking down the walls of stigma and advocating for awareness, we can make a significant impact in the lives of individuals and society as a whole.
Remember, your journey towards better mental well-being is not a solitary one. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, reach out for help. Together, we can make a difference.
Please contact Clarity Health Care here for guidance on booking an appointment with one of our psychologists or clinical psychologists in Fitzroy, Melbourne or Hobart, Tasmania
The key interventions that our clinician utilise are:
Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing (EMDR Therapy)
Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Schema Therapy
Motivational Interviewing
Family and Couples Therapy
Pharmacological Therapy