Stigma in mental health refers to negative attitudes, beliefs, and discrimination directed toward individuals with mental health conditions. It can also lead people to internalize these prejudices (self-stigma), affecting self-esteem and willingness to seek help.
Key Points:
- Types of Stigma:
- Public Stigma: Societal stereotypes, fear, and prejudice.
- Self-Stigma: Internalizing negative beliefs, feeling shame.
- Structural Stigma: Policies or institutional practices that limit opportunities (e.g., inadequate mental health coverage).
- Consequences: Social isolation, delayed or avoided treatment, worse health outcomes.
- Reduction Efforts: Public education, media campaigns, sharing personal stories of recovery, and promoting mental health parity in policy.
