An Understanding of Mental Health: Breaking the Stigma
Mental health has been a topic of concern for a long time, with many individuals facing mental illnesses in their lifetime. Unfortunately, due to lack of awareness and information, mental health has been stigmatized, which makes it challenging for individuals to seek help. This stigma leads to discrimination, shame, and even violence for those who are struggling with their mental health. However, with proper education and understanding, we can break the stigma and help individuals seeking support to get the help they need.
What is Mental Health?
Mental health refers to one’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Being mentally healthy also means having the ability to cope with everyday life stressors and maintain positive relationships. Mental illnesses are disorders that impact an individual’s thoughts, mood, and behavior, often making it difficult to function in everyday life.
The Impact of Stigma on Mental Health
Stigma is a significant hindrance to mental health support. There are two main types of stigma: social and self-stigma. Social stigma involves the negative beliefs held by society on an individual with a mental illness, often resulting in discrimination and isolation. Self-stigma occurs when an individual internalizes the social stigma, resulting in shame, self-denial, and self-discrimination. Such stigmatization reduces the number of people who seek help, making recovery challenging.
Breaking the Stigma
Breaking the stigma on mental health involves creating awareness and understanding for those going through mental illness. Reducing stigma requires a collective effort that involves promoting positive attitudes and behaviors towards mental health. Ways to break the stigma include:
Education
Educating society about mental health is crucial. Individuals need to know what mental health entails, how it affects people, and the ways they can support those with mental illnesses. A better understanding of mental health reduces the fear, ignorance, and discrimination commonly associated with mental illness.
Language
The language used when addressing mental illness plays a crucial role in promoting or reducing stigma. The language should be respectful, person-centered, and non-judgmental. Using stigmatizing phrases such as ‘crazy’ or ‘psycho’ makes it difficult for individuals to feel comfortable in sharing their experiences with others.
Visibility
Creating a society that promotes visibility and celebrating positive experiences on mental health can be significant in reducing stigma. Visibility can promote acceptance and support for individuals with mental illnesses, eliminating the shame and isolation commonly felt among them.
Access to Treatment
Access to treatment is critical in reducing the stigma associated with mental health. Providing support and appropriate treatment options for those with mental illnesses encourages them to seek help, reducing self-stigma and societal discrimination.
Conclusion
Breaking the stigma on mental health requires everyone’s effort. Educating ourselves and promoting positive attitudes towards mental health goes a long way in reducing discrimination and increasing support for individuals with mental illnesses. With access to better treatment options and continued efforts to break the stigma, we can promote positive mental health and support for individuals worldwide.
