Despite its undeniable importance, discussing mental health often invokes discomfort and apprehension in our society. Why is it that something so fundamental to our existence remains shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding? Conversations surrounding emotional well-being are frequently dismissed or avoided, perpetuating a culture of silence, shame and misunderstanding. These barriers not only impede open dialogue but also deter individuals from seeking the support they desperately need. Hence, it’s crucial that we recognise that mental health is an essential aspect of our overall well-being, and that neglecting it has significant detrimental impacts on individuals, communities, and society at large.
The Prevalence of Mental Health Challenges
The statistics surrounding mental health are staggering. According to Australian studies, 1 in 5 individuals between the ages of 16-85 (22%, or 4.3 million) experienced a mental disorder. In addition, 17% of Australians experienced an anxiety disorder, 8% experienced an affective disorder, and 3% struggled with a substance use disorder. Alarmingly, 1 in 7 children and adolescents aged 4-17 years also experienced a mental illness.These figures highlight, without a doubt, the importance of addressing mental health as a public health priority.
The Pervasive Effects of Stigmas Around Mental Health
Stigmas perpetuate harmful beliefs and attitudes, creating a culture that marginalises and ostracises individuals battling mental health challenges – further discouraging them to seek treatment and assistance. This perpetuation of stigmas not only exacerbates the suffering of those affected but also contributes to the deterioration of their mental well-being. For those experiencing mental health issues / difficulties, often they experience:
- Reluctance to Seek Help:The notion that mental health disorders are a sign of weakness or moral failing, and by seeking help is an admission of inadequacy. These misconceptions only serve to deepen the divide, further isolating those in need of support, and increasing their suffering and diminishing their overall well-being.
- Social Exclusion and Alienation: Individuals with mental health conditions experience social exclusion and alienation often as a result of stigmatising attitudes.The fear of rejection or misunderstanding leads to isolation from friends, family, and community, intensifying feelings of loneliness and hindering the formation of allopathic/supportive connections critical in recovery.
- Negative Self-Perception and Self-Stigma: Individuals who have internalised stigmas may feel that their mental health condition results in making them weak or flawed. Self-stigma often results in diminished self-worth, intensified feelings of guilt and shame, and can deter individuals from seeking assistance or engaging in self-care practices.
- Inadequate Access to Treatment and Support: Stigmatising beliefs may lead to limited availability of adequate mental health support and treatment services, whether due to inadequate resources, high costs, or a lack of availability in certain regions. Prolonged suffering, results in a higher chance of crises or relapses, and untreated or undertreated mental health problems are some of the repercussions.
- Strained Relationships: Stigmas around mental health can place a strain on personal relationships, resulting in misunderstandings, lack of empathy, and diminished support from loved ones. This strain can further isolate individuals, impeding their recovery process and exacerbating feelings of hopelessness.
- Barriers to Education and Employment: Prejudice and discrimination in the workplace and in educational institutions may hinder an individual’s access to resources, career opportunities, and equal treatment for those with mental health conditions. This keeps people trapped in a cycle of inequality and disadvantage, preventing them from reaching their full potential.
- Societal Expenses of Mental Health Stigmas: Stigmas related to mental health have significant negative social and economic effects. Reluctance to seek treatment, impediments in obtaining employment and education, and stigmatising beliefs lead to decreased productivity, higher healthcare costs, and unending cycles of poverty, homelessness, and involvement in the criminal justice system.
Understanding the impact of mental health stigmas is important in understanding the urgency for stigmatisation efforts. Clearly, by addressing and combating these stigmas, we can create a more inclusive and supportive society that prioritises mental well-being and provides the necessary resources and support for individuals to thrive.
What are Commonly Perpetrated Stigmas?
Although the general awareness of mental health issues has become wider, numerous stigmas continue to shape the public’s view. These stigmas often arise from misinterpretations, stereotypes, and the perpetuation of false narratives. To help de-stigmatise mental health, it is important to recognise and combat certain commonly perpetrated stigmas:
- Dangerousness and Unpredictability: The belief that people with mental health illnesses are innately dangerous or unpredictable is one of the most damaging stigmas.Sensationalised media portrayals that link mental illness to criminal activity and violence reinforce this perception. In reality, those with mental illnesses are more likely to be the targets of violence than to be those who perpetrate it.
- Weakness and Character Flaws: The misconception that suffering from a mental health illness is a sign of weakness or character flaws is the root of many stigmas surrounding mental health. The misleading notion puts blame on individuals and discourages them from getting treatment, disregarding the biological, psychological, and environmental factors that contribute to mental health issues.
- Lack of Validity: Another common stigma is the invalidation of mental health experiences. Some people write off mental health illnesses as “it’s all in the person’s head” or a result of someone wanting to get attention. This stigma undermines the real struggles and experiences that people with mental health disorders go through, encouraging dismissive attitudes and hindering empathy and support.
- “Just Snap Out Of It” Mentality: There is a prevalent belief that people with mental health illnesses may “snap out of it,” or overcome their condition with sheer determination. This oversimplification undermines the need for professional intervention and comprehensive treatment by ignoring the complexity of mental health issues. Individuals are subjected to unrealistic expectations, which only serve to downplay their struggles.
- Association with Weakness and Inferiority: Individuals with mental health conditions are frequently considered to be weak and inferior resulting from the stigmas generated surrounding mental health. Due to this stigma, it creates a barrier to open discussion, preventing individuals from sharing their experiences and seeking help. The fear of being labelled as “abnormal” or “crazy” can exacerbate feelings of shame and further isolate those who are already struggling.
- Misperceptions about Recovery and Functioning: Society sometimes holds misconceptions about recovering from mental health disorders. It’s commonly believed that after receiving treatment, a person should be fully “cured” and able to function normally. This stigma overlooks the fact that mental health is a journey and that each person’s path to recovery is different, often requiring constant monitoring, assistance, and adaptation to maintain wellbeing.
Practical Measures to End the Stigma
The de-stigmatisation of mental health is a collective effort that requires the cooperation of individuals, communities, organisations, and society as a whole. We can help create a more accepting and supportive environment for those with mental health conditions by proactively challenging stigmas and promoting a compassionate and accepting culture. Here are some practical ways we can take towards stigmatisation:
- Education and Awareness: Raising awareness and educating people is an excellent way to dispel stigmas associated with mental illness. Encourage the spread of more accurate information to debunk myths and misconceptions surrounding mental health issues. Encourage healthy discussions, workshops, and educational programs within schools, workplaces, and community settings to raise awareness and increase understanding.
- Language Matters: The power of our words….Pay attention to the language you use when discussing mental health. Steer clear of derogatory terms or stigmatising language that perpetuates stereotypes like “they are nutters….crazy….”. Use person-first language instead, emphasising that an individual has a mental health condition rather than defining them solely as a result of their illness.
- Share Personal Stories: Encourage those who have lived experiences of mental health disorders to share their stories openly. Validate their experience. Personal narratives can dispel stigmas, humanise mental health struggles, and help to instil compassion and empathy. By sharing stories of resiliency and recovery, individuals can help dispel stigmas and inspire others to seek help and support.
- Challenge Stereotypes and Myths: Please speak up. Take action to confront stigmatising ideas or preconceived notions about mental health whenever you encounter them. Debunk myths (one step at a time) and promote a more accurate understanding of mental health by engaging in respectful conversations, providing evidence-based information, and sharing personal experiences or stories of recovery.
- Support Mental Health Advocacy: Consider getting involved in local, national, or international mental health advocacy organisations and initiatives to support mental health advocacy. Support initiatives and campaigns that aim to reduce stigma, raise mental health awareness, and advocate for improved mental health services and policies. It could be within your workplace or at your school. By offering your voice and resources, you contribute to the larger movement of destigmatisation.
- Foster Supportive Communities: Create spaces where people may feel safe and supported to talk about their mental health. Foster an environment that promotes active listening, empathy, and non-judgmental attitudes. It could be by way of encouraging or setting up peer support groups, community forums, and initiatives that promote connection and solidarity among individuals with mental health conditions. Perhaps explore what peer groups already may exist in your area and promote this information to others in your community.
- Media Representation: Advocating for sensitive and accurate portrayals of mental health in the media is important. It could be by way of sending a letter to the local newspaper so it can be included in their “Letters” section where people have the opportunity to share their perspective or thoughts regarding something that is current or concerning them. Urge the media outlets to refrain from sensationalising mental health issues and instead focus on responsible reporting that promotes compassion and understanding. Support media projects that aim to depict a range of mental health experiences and challenge stereotypes.
- Encourage Help-Seeking Behaviour: Promote a culture where asking for help with mental health concerns is encouraged and viewed as a sign of strength rather than weakness. “R you Ok ? Day” is one such example where we are all encouraged to check in with one another. This could be something you could do more frequently throughout the year, with people you encounter in your community. Stress the importance of early intervention, the accessibility of quality mental health services, and the effectiveness of treatment. Provide details on resources and support systems that are available.
- Lead by Example: Set a compassionate and inclusive example for others to follow in your interactions with others. If you feel comfortable doing so, be honest about your personal struggles with mental health and show empathy.
Conclusion:
It’s important to keep in mind that anyone, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, or socioeconomic class, can experience mental health challenges. Misconceptions and a lack of understanding are often the root of stigma surrounding mental health, but by raising awareness and empathy, we can promote a society that is more accepting and supportive.
Seeking professional help for mental health concerns should be celebrated and encouraged, rather than viewed as a sign of weakness or guilt. We can empower people to take charge of their mental health journeys by encouraging self-care practices, creating robust support systems, and placing a high priority on mental well-being.
It takes a team effort from communities, organisations, and society as a whole to eradicate the stigma associated with mental health. In order to establish a culture where mental health is supported, valued, and celebrated, it’s time that we eradicate outdated beliefs, practice compassion, and work hand in hand 🙂.
