In recent years, we’ve seen an increase in the number of celebrities talking openly about their mental health challenges. Actors, athletes, and social media personalities are sharing their diagnoses and the ways that depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and other psychological problems have impacted their lives.
Individuals with mental health conditions are learning that they’re not alone and that even bright, beautiful, talented, and strong people struggle too.
In fact, mental health problems are quite common. The National Institute of Mental Health reports that at least 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. has a mental illness.
Commonly diagnosed mental illnesses
Some of the most commonly diagnosed mental illnesses are:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- ADHD
- PTSD
- Bipolar Disorder
Although psychological conditions are not uncommon, it takes a lot of courage for people to share their personal stories. Vulnerability requires bravery and honesty, and demands strength. We are grateful to those who have started the conversations.
Now, it’s time for us all to join in. Let’s discuss stigma and what keeps people from talking about mental health or seeking treatment.
What is mental health stigma?
The Centers for Disease Control defines mental health stigma as negative attitudes, beliefs, and stereotypes people may hold toward those who experience mental health conditions.
Stigma can take different forms:
- Individual stigma is negative beliefs or attitudes people with mental health conditions hold about themselves. They may blame themselves or see their mental health challenges as flaws, weaknesses, and sources of shame.
- Interpersonal stigma is negative beliefs or attitudes held by people or groups of people about others with mental health conditions, their families, and those who provide care for them.
- Systemic stigma includes laws, regulations, and policies that limit the rights of people with mental health conditions. Systemic stigma leads to discrimination in housing, work, education, healthcare, and other areas of life that are essential to a person’s security and stability.
How stigma hurts people with mental health conditions
Stigma is deeply damaging to people living with mental health conditions and those who love and care for them. Stigma can lead to hopelessness, decreased self-esteem, increased isolation, shame, and worsening of mental health symptoms.
The American Psychiatric Association reports that more than half of people with mental health conditions do not seek help for their psychological problems. And a growing body of research tells us that stigma not only prevents people from getting help, but also leads them to discontinue treatment early.
Misinformation in the media
Negative attitudes and beliefs about mental illness come from false information, misunderstanding, culture, tradition, and fear. One of the best ways to reduce stigma and get help for yourself or someone you love is to learn more about mental illness.
The media, including social media, often provides us with misinformation, creating myths and stereotypes about people with mental health conditions. Also, people tend to be more fearful of things they don’t understand, and that fear can be harmful.
Truthful information and accurate representation in media are essential to combating stigma and building a healthier society where psychological conditions are identified early and treated effectively.
See the resources list at the end of this article to learn where to find reliable, accurate information on mental health. When having conversations online or in person, don’t be afraid to speak up when you hear others expressing negative attitudes or misinformation about mental illness.
Ways to reduce mental health stigma
People experiencing mental health challenges can live full, productive lives. As well as getting treatment, ending stigma will help.
In addition to combating misinformation, here are some other ways to reduce stigma:
Talk openly about mental health struggles.
Many people continue to work, raise children, go to school, and spend time with friends and family despite mental health challenges. When you share your personal experiences, you let others know that anyone can have mental health struggles. Speaking openly with people you care about is one way to break down stereotypes, let others know they are not alone, and that mental health issues are common and don’t need to be hidden.
Listen closely to others.
When someone shares their experience of mental illness, listen closely. You may find that you can relate to their experience in some way, and you may learn something valuable. Additionally, by listening attentively, we let others know that we see and hear them, and they matter. This act of kindness reduces isolation and shame.
Show empathy and offer support.
When someone shares their experience of mental struggles with you, show empathy and provide support by allowing yourself to feel what they might be feeling. You can say something like, “That sounds really hard.” And “I’m sorry you’re going through this.” Often, we want to fix what feels uncomfortable or appears to be a problem. This isn’t always helpful though. You don’t need to fix anything. Just be there for them.
Avoid labels or using diagnosis as identity.
Language matters. The way we talk to and about ourselves and others impacts how we think and feel. Rather than say, “I am bipolar”, try saying “I have bipolar disorder”. You are not your diagnosis. Mental health conditions are not identities.
Speak up when others express negative attitudes.
We can all have an impact when we speak up and correct misinformation or challenge negative beliefs. There is no need for confrontation. You can gently and respectfully offer thoughts and information for others to consider. You don’t have to change anyone else’s mind in the moment, just offer another perspective or information they may not have already. Let them think about it. Change happens slowly.
Learn facts from reliable sources.
Make a point of learning more about mental health conditions from reliable sources. Lack of knowledge and fear are the drivers behind stigma. Knowledge can decrease mystery and uncertainty, and thus reduce fear. Some excellent sources are listed at the bottom of this article.
Find support.
If you or someone you love is suffering from a mental health condition, get help. Seeking treatment and support is a great way to reduce stigma. In fact, getting help early is one of the best ways to prevent some conditions from worsening.
Reliable resources for mental health information
There are many reliable organizations online that provide information and resources on mental health. However, it’s important to find information that is accurate and trustworthy.
Some highly respected sources for mental health information include:
- American Psychological Association (APA)
- American Psychiatric Association (APA)
- Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
- National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
In conclusion
Researchers and public health organizations seem to be investing more time and money into reducing mental health stigma than ever before. Celebrities, athletes, and other public personalities are joining the effort to reduce stigma.
Yet, it will take more of us to combat this significant problem, one that is now referred to as a health crisis.
If you have questions or concerns about mental health, WWMG’s Department of Psychology is available to provide accurate information and if needed, guide you toward appropriate treatment. Contact us about your concerns.
Who to call if you’re in crisis
If you or someone else is in crisis, call or text 9-8-8 or call the Snohomish County 24-hour crisis line at (800) 584-3578. This service is available 24/7/365, including holidays.