Breaking the Silence: Addressing Mental Health Stigma and Raising Awareness
- Stacey Pinatelli
- Sep 30, 2024
- 3 min read
As a society, we naturally celebrate causes that raise awareness. In October, everything turns pink for breast cancer, and we rally behind heart disease with fundraising efforts. These initiatives are vital, but they often overshadow another pressing issue: mental health. Depression is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide, and the suicide rates among adults and adolescents are rising. Yet, we remain hesitant to engage in meaningful conversations about mental health and the traumas that often accompany it.
The Prevalence of Mental Illness
According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), one in five U.S. adults is currently living with a mental illness. However, more than half of these individuals do not seek help. The question is: why?
Reasons for Avoidance
Stereotypes and Prejudices: Stigma surrounding mental illness can stem from societal judgments and self-perception. People may be seen as dangerous or to blame for their condition, leading to internalized shame. This public stigma can make it even harder for individuals to seek help, as they may feel they are somehow “less than” others (Corrigan, et al., 2014).
Fear: Fear of the unknown or fear of change can deter individuals from seeking treatment. Many are apprehensive about confronting their feelings or fear being judged, especially if they are grappling with past traumas.
The Impact of Avoidance
Avoidance may seem like a short-term solution, but it often exacerbates the problem. It can lead to:
Reduced hope
Lower self-esteem and confidence
Increased psychiatric symptoms
Difficulties in relationships and at work
What Can We Do?
To combat mental health stigma and increase awareness, we can take concrete steps. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) provides valuable suggestions for individuals looking to make a difference:
Leverage Social Media: Use platforms to share information about mental health, including facts and personal experiences, to combat misperceptions and negativity.
Mind Your Language: Be conscious of the words you use. Language shapes perception, and reminding others that “words matter” can foster a more supportive environment.
Promote Equality: Treat mental illness with the same urgency and respect as physical illnesses like cancer or diabetes. Normalize the conversation around seeking help.
Practice Compassion: Extend kindness to yourself and to those experiencing mental health challenges. Compassion can bridge the gap created by stigma
Engage with the Media: Hold media outlets accountable for their portrayal of mental illness. Speak out against stigmatizing language and encourage responsible reporting.
Choose Empowerment: Embrace stories of resilience. “I was once a survivor that struggled to thrive, and now I choose to be an inspirer to help other survivors learn how to move from surviving to thriving.” - Stacey R Pinatelli, PsyD
Conclusion
Increasing awareness of mental health is essential for dismantling stigma and encouraging individuals to seek help. By addressing stereotypes, promoting understanding, and practicing compassion, we can create a society where mental health is openly discussed and prioritized. Together, we can shift the narrative, fostering an environment where everyone feels empowered to seek the help they deserve.
Let’s break the silence and elevate the conversation around mental health—because everyone deserves to thrive.
Corrigan, P. W., Druss, B. G., & Perlick, D. A. (2014). The Impact of Mental Illness Stigma on Seeking and Participating in Mental Health Care. Psychological science in the public interest : a journal of the American Psychological Society, 15(2), 37–70. https://doi.org/10.1177/1529100614531398
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