Stigmas in Mental Illness

What is a stigma?

What is a stigma?O An attempt to label a particular

group of people as less worthy of respect than others

O A mark of shame, disgrace or disapproval that results in discrimination

O Not just matter of using the wrong word or action – its about disrespect

What are some stigmas about mental illness?

Mental Illness StigmasO It’s the fault of the individualO It’s a sign of weaknessO They’re crazy/psycho/out of their mindsO They belong in the loony binO Its all in their headsO Only quitters attempt suicideO Your choosing to be sad/angry/messed up/ differentO They need to get over itO They must be stupid/ retartedO They’re all dangerous and should be locked awayO They’re not sick because nothing is physically wrong

with them

Why are stigmas a problem for those dealing with

Mental Illness?

Why are stigmas a problem?

O Inadequate insurance coverage for mental health services

O Fear, mistrust, and violence against people living with mental illness and their families

O Family and friends turning their backs on people with mental illness

O Prejudice and discriminationO Discrimination against those with mental

illness can keep them from seeking treatment

Discrimination and seeking help

O 1 in 5 Americans live with a mental disorder

O Estimates indicate that nearly 2/3s of all people with a diagnosable mental illness do not seek treatment

O Lack of knowledge, rejection of friends, and discrimination are a few reasons why people may not seek treatment

Discrimination against people with mental illness violates their rights

and denies themopportunities

O People with mental illnesses often experience discrimination in the workplace, education, housing, and healthcare

How Can We Fight Stigma?

1. Use respectful language:

Put the person before the illness – use phrases such “person with schizophrenia”.

Never use terms like crazy, lunatic, psycho, retarded, and correct people who do so

2. Talk/ Teach about it:

Include mental illness in discussions

Spread understanding that these are illnesses like any other

3. Become an Advocate:Create awareness by writing letters to newspapers and lawmakers.Speak out and challenge stereotypes portrayed in the media.Take it upon yourself to inform your community about the truth about mental illness

http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/international/2012/08/10/cnn-ideas-elyn-saks-ted.cnn

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WUaXFlANojQ&lr=1

Resources O NAMI (National Alliance for Mental

Illness) – nami.orgO Gaining-insight.comO Bringchange2mind.org