Mental health remains a topic covered in misunderstanding and stigma. Despite progress in awareness and advocacy, many people still feel hesitant to seek help or talk openly about their struggles. At Create Perspective Counseling, we are committed to developing understanding, providing support, and helping individuals feel empowered to prioritize their mental well-being. Let’s explore the roots of mental health stigma, why it persists, and how we can collectively work to break it.
The Origins of Mental Health Stigma
Mental health stigma has deep historical and cultural roots. In ancient times, mental health conditions were often seen as signs of divine punishment or possession, as described in historical texts like the Bible and various religious scriptures. This belief led to practices such as exorcisms or isolation from society. In ancient Greece, Hippocrates proposed that mental illnesses were caused by imbalances in bodily humors, marking one of the earliest scientific approaches, but such views were overshadowed for centuries by superstitious interpretations. During the 19th and early 20th centuries, mental illness was frequently treated in asylums, where individuals faced inhumane conditions. Notable examples include institutions like London's Bethlem Royal Hospital, commonly known as "Bedlam," which became infamous for its harsh treatments and public viewing of patients. These institutions often reinforced the perception of mental illness as something to be hidden away. These historical attitudes fostered a culture of fear and misunderstanding, which continues to influence modern perceptions of mental health. Additionally, the lack of understanding led to harmful stereotypes and discriminatory practices. Even in modern times, media representations often perpetuate misconceptions. For example, characters with mental health conditions are frequently portrayed as dangerous or unpredictable, such as in films like Psycho or Joker. These portrayals reinforce the idea that seeking help is a sign of failure. They also perpetuate the misconception that mental health challenges are something to be ashamed of.
How Stigma Impacts Mental Health
Stigma affects individuals on multiple levels:
Internalized Shame: Many people with mental health challenges feel guilt or embarrassment, leading them to suffer in silence rather than seeking help.
Social Isolation: Stigma can lead to rejection or misunderstanding from friends, family, and colleagues, further isolating those in need.
Workplace Challenges: Employees may avoid disclosing mental health struggles due to fear of professional repercussions, resulting in unaddressed issues and burnout.
Breaking the Stigma: What We Can Do
Tackling stigma requires a united and persistent effort from individuals, communities, and organizations. To create meaningful change, we need to engage on multiple levels, from personal actions to systemic initiatives. Here are some impactful strategies you can consider:
1. Educate Yourself and Others
Understanding mental health is the first step to breaking stigma. Learn about common conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. It's also crucial to rely on credible sources when sharing information. While social media influencers may evoke emotion and share personal experiences, some do so primarily to gain views and profit. This can sometimes lead to the spread of misinformation. By focusing on trusted sources and verified facts, we can ensure the information shared helps to dispel myths rather than perpetuate them.
2. Use Appropriate Language
The way we talk about mental health matters. Avoid labeling individuals or day to day events by mental health conditions (e.g., "She is bipolar," "the weather is bipolar" vs. "She struggles with bipolar disorder" "the weather has had quite the range"). This type of language emphasizes the individual or situation rather than the stigma.
3. Encourage Open Conversations
Sharing your own story and struggles can also be incredibly powerful. Research shows that over 80% of people experienced anxiety and depression during the pandemic, highlighting that you are not alone. By opening up, you can create a sense of connection and show others that it’s okay to talk about their challenges. And even if you do not have a personal story or could relate, creating a brave space where people feel comfortable discussing their mental health by listening without judgment and showing empathy can make a world of difference.
4. Normalize Seeking Help
According to the American Psychological Association (APA) 75% of people who engage in therapy experience positive outcomes. Seeking therapy is a sign of strength, not weakness. Share positive experiences with counseling and highlight the benefits of professional support. Additionally, more accurate and positive media representations of mental health can play a key role in this effort by normalizing therapy and showcasing recovery as achievable. Shows like Ted Lasso, which highlights the importance of therapy and emotional vulnerability, or This Is Us, which addresses mental health struggles with compassion and depth, demonstrate how authentic portrayals can inspire empathy and reduce stigma. When people see these portrayals of mental health struggles and triumphs, it fosters understanding, challenges stereotypes, and encourages open dialogue.
5. Advocate for Policy Changes
Support policies that promote mental health awareness and expand access to care. Advocate for workplace mental health initiatives that provide employees with resources and accommodations to thrive. Push for affordable therapy options from health insurance companies and increased funding for community mental health programs to ensure accessibility for all. Additionally, advocate for policies to address the disparity in how mental health professionals are compensated relative to their level of education and expertise. Unlike many other fields requiring advanced degrees, current initiatives often undervalue the contributions of therapists, leading to burnout and workforce shortages. Fair wages for mental health professionals recognize their important role and help attract and keep skilled individuals, benefiting the whole community.
Final Thoughts
Breaking the stigma around mental health is an ongoing process, but each small step makes a difference. Whether by educating yourself, supporting a loved one, or seeking help for your own well-being, you contribute to a more compassionate and understanding community.
If you or someone you know is ready to begin their mental health journey, reach out to us, we specialize in providing holistic, creative approaches to mental health care. Our services include religious trauma recovery, grief counseling, trauma therapy, and so much more. We also offer free 15-minute consultations to help individuals take the first step in their journey toward healing. We believe that everyone deserves to feel heard, valued, and supported. By addressing mental health stigma head-on, we aim to create a world where seeking help is not only accepted but celebrated. Together, we can create a brighter, stigma-free future.
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