Currently, there is a growing focus on the significance of mental well-being. Mental health conditions are widespread, with over 50 million people in the United States being affected. Nevertheless, despite their prevalence, there remains a severe stigma around mental illnesses, which can have detrimental effects on emotional well-being and impede treatment-seeking behaviors.
Individuals who experience mental illness often feel ashamed or apprehensive about discussing their challenges. They may also hesitate to seek assistance due to the fear of being judged and stigmatized. They worry about being seen as different, labeled as “crazy,” or viewed as incapable by those around them. Unfortunately, the anxiety and fear of judgment can intensify their mental health issues, creating a distressing cycle that worsens their well-being.
Misconceptions about mental health illness
The development of mental health conditions is influenced by various factors, including genetics, biology, lifestyle, traumatic experiences, and environmental factors. Regardless of the cause, it is important to recognize that mental health conditions are genuine health issues. Throughout history, people with mental illnesses have faced marginalization and discrimination. Early beliefs attributing mental illness to demonic possession, magic, divine wrath, or moral punishment instilled fear, mistrust, and discriminatory attitudes.
Another important issue is that some mental illnesses are mistakenly seen as just personality traits or flaws in character instead of being recognized as real medical conditions. People may use phrases like “You’re so manic” or “She’s an OCD” without understanding the harm they can cause.
Furthermore, the popular trend of posting self-care activities, positive quotes, and inspirational messages on platforms like Instagram can give the impression that mental health issues can be solved by simple mood changes or positive thinking alone. This overlooks the fact that proper treatment often involves more comprehensive approaches like oral treatments, therapy, and specialized techniques to change negative thought patterns.
The effects of public stigma
Public stigma refers to the common reaction that the general population has towards mental illness, while self-stigma involves the negative feelings individuals with mental health issues harbor about their own condition. Both types of stigma are influenced by stereotypes, discrimination, and prejudice. Sad to say, there exists a prevalent negative perception of mental illness perpetuated by the media.
When a violent crime is reported in the news, people often tend to label the perpetrator as a “sociopath” without considering the complexities of their mental illness. This labeling can unjustly stigmatize individuals who live with mental health conditions on a daily basis. Statistically speaking, individuals with mental illness are more likely to be victims of crimes than perpetrators.
Self-stigma among individuals living with mental illness manifests as:
- Feeling a sense of worthlessness and inferiority due to their condition.
- Anticipating negative judgment from others if their mental health condition becomes known.
- Avoiding social interactions out of fear that their presence may dampen the mood
They believe that they are to blame for their condition, despite the fact that mental health conditions can arise from a combination of genetic, traumatic, and environmental factors.
Judging hinders recovery and treatment
Despite the increased awareness of mental health, many individuals still hesitate to discuss it openly and seek help due to fear and stigma. Society, in general, tends to associate mental illness with danger, violence, and constant instability, reinforcing harmful stereotypes. This stigma and discrimination can worsen a person’s mental health struggles and hinder their access to proper treatment. Moreover, it can lead to isolation and avoidance, contributing to various psychological and physical complications.
The stigma surrounding mental illness can pose challenges to maintaining healthy relationships. Individuals may fear opening up about their struggles, leading them to push people away. Conversely, some people with health issues experience distancing from family and friends who may struggle to cope. Such experiences can heighten feelings of anxiety and depression.
Breaking the judgment and stigma about mental health illnesses
People often conceal their mental illness due to shame and apprehension of judgment. Overcoming the stigma associated with mental involves fostering an open-minded and non-judgmental attitude when someone shares their struggles. They feel less isolated, which can empower them to seek necessary treatment and lead fulfilling lives.
Societal stigma can influence how individuals are treated, even by healthcare providers who may hold stereotypes. Research has indicated that individuals with a health history often receive lower-quality care for their physical health issues and may not be taken seriously when discussing non-mental health symptoms.
Misunderstandings about mental illness are widespread, but breaking the stigma requires open and honest conversations about health. Prominent celebrities sharing their experiences have started this shift in attitudes. It is crucial to listen without judgment when people discuss their struggles. Hiding mental health issues out of shame or fear hinders receiving necessary help, ultimately impacting physical well-being.
Reminder
If you or a loved one is experiencing mental health symptoms, seek help right away. Mindshift Psychological Services offers therapy and counseling sessions for people dealing with mental health issues. You can schedule an appointment by calling (714) 584-9700 or visiting their website.
