Stigma: negative attitudes or beliefs towards a person or group
Self-stigma: negative feelings about one's attributes that cause internalized shame
"Mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of, but stigma and bias shame us all." ~Bill Clinton
Mental health stigma is a "key barrier to successful treatment engagement, including seeking and sustaining participation in services" (Ahmedani, 2011)
Stigma is caused by a lack of understanding, inaccurate information, or fear
Self-stigma can be measured by alienation, stereotype endorsement, discrimination experience, and social withdrawal (Ponte, 2021)
Self-sabotage, rumination, and suicidal ideation are common consequences of self-stigma
Occupational therapists work to help adjust the stigmatized beliefs and attitudes and help find coping skills for the individual and their support systems to improve "self-esteem, empowerment, and help-seeking behaviors" (Ponte, 2021)
Listening, staying mindful, responding thoughtfully, knowing the facts, and being understanding are the best approaches to addressing stigma
GB Integrated Wellness. (n.d.). Gallagher Bassett. https://www.gallagherbassett.com/nz/
Ahmedani, B.K. (2011). Mental health stigma: Society, individuals, and the profession. The Journal of Social Work Values and Ethics, 8(2), 41-416. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3248273/
Ponte, K. (2021). The many impacts of self-stigma. National Alliance on Mental Illness. https://www.nami.org/recovery/the-many-impacts-of-self-stigma/
Resources
Vital Heating Solutions. (2021, May 11). Mental Health Awareness Week 2021. Vital Heating Solutions - Mechanical Gas Engineering. https://vitalheatingsolutions.co.uk/2021/05/11/mental-health-awareness-week-2021/
National Deaf Center. (2024). Self-Determination. National Deaf Center. https://nationaldeafcenter.org/resources/transition/self-determination/
Mission Harbor Behavioral Health. (n.d.). Leaning on support groups for mental health in college. https://sbtreatment.com/college-mental-health/support-groups/
Barr, M. (2023). Student support services: Talking to your child about mental health. Casey Grammar School, 1(3). Retrieved from https://www.newsletter.caseygrammar.vic.edu.au/news-articles/2023-term-1-edition-3-student-support-services
Barr, M. (2023). Student support services: Talking to your child about mental health. Casey Grammar School, 1(3). Retrieved from https://www.newsletter.caseygrammar.vic.edu.au/news-articles/2023-term-1-edition-3-student-support-services