STIGMA

stigma

noun

stig·​ma ˈstig-mə 

plural stigmas or stigmata stig-ˈmä-tə  ˈstig-mə-tə 

: a set of negative and unfair beliefs that a society or group of people have about something

WHAT IS STIGMA?

Stigma is when someone sees you in a negative way because of a particular characteristic or attribute (such as skin colour, cultural background, a disability or a mental illness)

THREE TYPES OF STIGMA: PUBLIC, INTERNALIZED AND STIGMA-BY ASSOCIATION

Public Stigma

When looking at how stigma shows up in public, we ask “how does the public (the majority, or a large part, of society) perceive this people group?”

Internalized or Self-Stigma

Self-stigma occurs when individuals internalize the beliefs and opinions of their dominant culture. As you can imagine, these beliefs can profoundly affect a person’s self-image and feeling of worthiness. Self-stigma significantly impacts personal relationships, family, work and social life. Self-stigma can escalate depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and feelings of shame.

Stigma-By-Association (SBA)

Friends and family members of those with mental illness may also experience the detrimental effects of public stigma on their wellbeing. SBA can have psychological effects similar to those experienced by people who have a diagnosis, including a tendency to isolate and avoid social interaction. A coping mechanism for people dealing with SBA may be to distance themselves from the loved one dealing with mental illness as a way of distancing from the stigma. Or it could involve withdrawing from social situations so that they don’t have to answer difficult questions about their loved one. This distancing can lead to a breakdown in the family unit.

Stigma not only directly affects individuals with mental illness but also the loved ones who support them, often including their family members.

STIGMA, PREJUDICE AND DISCRIMINATION AGAINST PEOPLE WITH MENTAL ILLNESS

Stigma, prejudice and discrimination against people with mental illness can be subtle or it can be obvious—but no matter the magnitude, it can lead to harm. People with mental illness are marginalized and discriminated against in various ways, but understanding what that looks like and how to address and eradicate it can help.

Harmful Effects of Stigma and Discrimination

Stigma and discrimination can contribute to worsening symptoms and reduced likelihood of getting treatment. A recent extensive review of research found that self-stigma leads to negative effects on recovery among people diagnosed with severe mental illnesses. Effects can include:

  • reduced hope

  • lower self-esteem

  • increased psychiatric symptoms

  • difficulties with social relationships

  • reduced likelihood of staying with treatment

  • more difficulties at work

Some of the other harmful effects of stigma can include:

  • Reluctance to seek help or treatment and less likely to stay with treatment

  • Social isolation

  • Lack of understanding by family, friends, coworkers, or others

  • Fewer opportunities for work, school or social activities or trouble finding housing

  • Bullying, physical violence or harassment

  • Health insurance that doesn't adequately cover your mental illness treatment

  • The belief that you'll never succeed at certain challenges or that you can't improve your situation

Source: Adapted from Mayo Clinic