SOCIAL STIGMA 

WHAT IS SOCIAL STIGMA

Social stigma is the discrimination or disapproval of a person due to certain characteristics that label them as different, or separate them from others. Much of the research in this area focusing on MS patients has found that over half of all patients will experience social stigma as a result of physical disability and/or  mental illness that can accompany the disease (Vitturi, B.K, et al. 2022).  

HOW CAN IT AFFECT YOU?

According to research around MS and social stigma, the central reasons for external discrimination are disability and mental health problems such as depression (Grothe, L. et al, 2022). However, a lack of acceptance from our social networks can also serve to exacerbate a the condition, and can severely impact a person's resilience to the stress of living with MS. This is associated with lower life quality, and poorer mental health which also increases the risk of self devaluation and internalised stigma. 

THE IMPORTANCE OF HUMAN CONNECTION

Social interactions sit at the core of human connection, and we rely on them to positively navigate daily functioning (Cibrian-Landeral, T. et al, 2018). Therefore, to feel singled out and separated from others can be traumatising and act as a significant trigger for a range of negative outcomes. Research demonstrates that stigma can reduce a person's opportunity to attain healthcare, housing, employment, and engage in social interactions. It also impacts a patient's willingness to seek medical attention, which can lead to mental problems being undiagnosed (Anagnostouli, M. et al. 2016). 

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

According to a systematic review of data analysing MS,  and discrimination in the workplace, 72.9% of people experience some degree of stigma (Lane. J, et al. 2022). The prevalence of workplace stigma increases the risk of unemployment, further contributing to feelings of low mood and depression. Many MS patients rely on disability benefits due to employment losses or reduced capacity to work. However, almost a third of patients do not claim their entitlements due to the fear of being stigmatised (Enough, 2020). 90% of people describe feeling discriminated against.  The relapsing remitting nature of MS symptoms mean the condition is not always obvious, which is a major cause of social judgement leading to internalised stigma among this population.  

CASE STUDY

A recent case study involving a 58 year old male named Gary, describes how he was diagnosed with MS at 29. He went on to complete two degrees and trained as a social worker. Being forced to take time off of work due to worsening mobility issues, meant he had to claim benefits. He describes how: “without it id be stuck, as my mobility problems mean that I can't access public transport, yet I have been subjected to abuse and called a benefits scrounger” 

He went on to describe how he was spat at and called a skiver. This experience led to Gary retreating into himself and staying at home more, he says: “I began to have doubts and worry about how people saw me” (Enough, 2020).  

COPING WITH STIGMATISATION

Sadly Gary's story is one of many people who live with the debilitating symptoms of MS (Vitturi, B.K. et al, 2022). Fear of stigmatisation can lead to a person not disclosing their condition, or putting themselves at risk by carrying out tasks when they are not medically fit to do so. 

One consistent finding among the literature on MS and the stigmatisation people suffer, was that the longer a patient has lived with MS, the better they may adapt to coping (Grothe, L. et al, 2022). However, adaptive coping mechanisms were found to be among patients with better familial support systems which help patients avoid situations in which they may be stigmatised. Many patients only inform a select few of their condition to reduce discrimination.  This follows the majority of research around MS adaptation, in that social support and psychological resources can protect individuals against the harmful effects of stigma.

Therefore,  patients of MS who do not have a network of support, may be more vulnerable to the stress caused by external judgements and prejudice. 

EVERYONE IS DIFFERENT

Mitigating the negative views of others is not an easy task. Stigma is a traumatising experience that can increase the risk of physiological distress. For example, individuals who lack caregiving, family support and employment become even more vulnerable to negative self belief, which can lead to self stigmatisation. Individuals who are used to a strong sense of independence, may be more impacted by having to rely on other people, than others who adapt well to the potential need for a caregiver. Or patients with a traumatic history may have additional difficulties dealing with social stressors, and may be more likely to have low self esteem. This can negatively influence the emergence of maladaptive coping strategies (Nagra. S.G, 2016).

GETTING HELP

Knowledge of how to manage MS and find ways to improve quality of life is essential. Therefore, it is important to speak to your GP and disclose any problems with stigmatisation in your life that may need to be addressed. Many patients find it helpful to know that they are not alone in their experience and that others' prejudice does not have to define how they live.