The Meaning of Mental Health Stigma

Quoted by Better Up, mental health stigma is a negative response shown to someone who has a disorder or problem with mental health. A journal written by Brian K. Ahmedani reported by Medical News Today, mental health stigma is society disapproval or social disapproval. This disapproval society is given to people who ask for professional help to deal with emotional distress such as anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. Pressure from mental health stigma can come from anywhere, including colleagues, friends, family and the wider community. Usually, mental health stigma is formed from common stereotypes that are wrong, negative, and offensive.

Types of Stigma in Mental Health

1. Public stigma: negative views of some people in a community/group related to mental health.
2. Personal stigma: negative attitudes toward mental health that come from personal views or have been influenced by society.
3. Institutional stigma: policies or procedures that are disproportionate and affect people with mental health conditions, can occur in institutions, institutions, schools, to companies.
4. Perceived stigma: this stigma exists because the assumptions that other people make about mental health tend to be negative.
5. Stigma by association: also known as politeness stigma, where you believe things about mental health based on the experiences of those closest to you.
6. Label avoidance stigma: many people with mental health disorders do not want to talk about mental health for fear of being labeled negatively.

The Effects of Having a Mental Health Stigma

According to the Mental Health Foundation from Medical News Today, nearly 9 out of 10 people with mental illness feel the effects of stigma and discrimination in their lives. They also say someone with mental health problems is more disliked in relationships and groups. These stigmas also make a person less likely to seek professional help.

Here are some examples of the effects of mental health stigma:

1. social isolation
2. low self-esteem
3. hopeless
4. feel guilty and ashamed
5. avoid treatment and medication
6. symptoms getting worse
7. not getting justice
8. discrimination at work

How to Deal with Mental Health Stigma

1. Seek professional help

If you are aware that you have a mental health problem, it is better to seek professional help immediately. By taking this quick step, you will know what steps to take and how to process stigma from others.

2. Be more mindful and avoid negative self-talk

You have to pay more attention to yourself and what you think. Avoid doing negative self-talk. The narrative from yourself is the biggest influence so that you believe the various stigmas that people give you.

3. Avoid self-isolation

Mental health stigma and the negative things that accompany it are the main causes that make a person isolate himself. Don't shy away from social interaction and allow yourself to stay connected with friends and family.

4. Remember the positives

You need to give yourself lots of positive affirmations so you won't be affected by negative stigma.

5. Join a mutually supportive group

There are many support groups that can help you manage your mental health. Joining a support group will help remind you that you are not alone.