Overcoming the Stigma Surrounding Mental Health: A Journey of Healing and Understanding
By: Marissa Pollet / October 5, 2023
The Ongoing Stigma of Mental Health
Despite the fact that mental health conditions affect millions of people worldwide, a stigma persists. This stigma can act as an obstacle, often deterring people from seeking the help they need. Let’s explore what we can do to shed light on the nature of this stigma, its consequences, and most importantly, the steps we can all take to overcome it.
What is Stigma and Why Does It Exist?
Stigma against mental health can be presented in various ways, some are easily seen and some subtle, but all equally damaging. Here are some common instances in how stigma may look when we speak about mental health:
Lack of Understanding: People may view mental health issues as a sign of weakness, lack of willpower, or moral failing. The lack of understanding makes it challenging to seek treatment for ourselves or support those around us that may be struggling.
Discrimination: Those with mental health conditions often face discrimination in employment, education, and housing.
Media Stereotypes: Media portrayals often contribute to the stigma by portraying individuals with mental health conditions as dangerous, unstable, or morally corrupt. We all can recall a movie or a show in which an individual struggled with a mental health condition. How was the actor portrayed and were they supported in a light that was accepting and non-judgmental?
So, why does this stigma exist? The reasons are complex and can include cultural beliefs, lack of education, and fear of the unknown. Shedding a light on the stigma of mental health and gaining a strong support system helps to break down these barriers.
The Consequences of Stigma
What happens when we allow stigma to overshadow how important mental wellness truly is in our lives? Here are some common ways the stigma of mental health can halt our path towards seeking the care we may need:
Barrier to Treatment: Stigma can discourage people from seeking help, leading to worsening symptoms and poorer outcomes. Have you tried to seek care and you felt stuck? It’s ok, even a failed attempt does not mean you are incapable of trying again and breaking through the barrier.
Reduced Support: Stigmatization can lead to social isolation, as friends and family may distance themselves from the individual. It may be hard to open up about a mental health struggle, but allowing yourself to be vulnerable and lean on others lessens the feeling of isolation. Friends and family are willing to listen and provide support if we let them in on what we need and how they can help!
Internalized Stigma: Those with mental health conditions may internalize the stigma, leading to lower self-esteem and self-efficacy. We are all worthy of living a life that makes us feel good about ourselves.
Steps to Overcome Stigma
Overcoming the stigma surrounding mental health requires collective action. Here are some steps each one of us can take:
Educate Yourself: Knowledge is a powerful tool. Read up on mental health conditions, their causes, and treatment options. Having the power to be your own advocate provides a sense of strength, this is your path towards wellness, and you are in control.
Open Conversations: Create safe spaces for open dialogue about mental health. The more we talk about it, the more we normalize it.
Be Supportive: Offer a listening ear and emotional support to those dealing with mental health issues.
Seek Professional Help: There's no shame in consulting a mental health professional. Doing so can not only benefit you but also help destigmatize mental health.
Advocate: Raise your voice. Use your platform, whether big or small, to spread awareness and advocate for better mental health care.
Conclusion
The journey to overcome the stigma surrounding mental health is long but crucial. The first step begins with each one of us. As we educate ourselves, foster open conversations, and offer support, we can chip away at the walls of stigma to create a more empathetic and understanding society. Let’s work together to build a world where mental health is not shamed but understood, a place where our needs are prioritized, and nurtured.
For those who are struggling and would like professional guidance, our team of caring therapists at Inspired Wellness are here to help you through your journey towards better mental health.