Stigma prevails in society. It is termed as the negative attitude that people display towards disability, mental illness and other health conditions. Unfortunately, discrimination surrounding psychological sickness is nothing unheard of! According to studies, stigma is considered one of the crucial factors for adding to poor mental conditions. It brings a lot of changes in a person suffering from psychiatric illness, causing delayed treatment and lack of proper care. If you are unaware of stigma health, here are a few things that can shower light on the same.
The types of stigma
Stigma can be broadly classified as two types- self-perceived stigma and social stigma. The former ones deal with internal discrimination and shame whilst the latter involves peoples’ prejudiced behaviours towards those individuals suffering from poor psychological health. Though the public has become pretty much aware of the psychiatric conditions, pessimistic views and attitudes linger around those who are experiencing it.
Stigma acts as a barrier
Despite campaigns and public awareness regarding mental illness, this attracts mass stigma. The saddest part of being a part of stigma is that it affects people to accept who they are and how they should deal with the downbeat people around them. Stigma stands like a big wall between care and illness and stops people from getting diagnosed and care about the same.
It bestows enormous impact
The outcome of stigma is grave and detrimental to health. When you show a negative attitude to people, they go through painful experiences and become intolerant to people. They become angry, irritated and vexed with petty situations and show hesitation to seek out help. Often, this leads to isolation, morbidity, social rejection, deteriorating mental health, poor brain functioning, avoidance, self-doubt, low self-esteem, shame and more. Without proper treatment, the condition worsens so as the outcome. This also affects people to get a job and shine in society.
You can safeguard your mental health
It is possible for people to not get affected by the prejudice and negative behaviour surrounding them by not paying attention to it. Different social activities and games will keep people diverted and sane at the same time. Participation in communities dealing with mental illness can also be a great start to safeguard your mental health. Take time talking to people, share your stories, play games and take up new hobbies to reduce stress and anxiety.
Stigma affects everyone around you
Pessimistic attitude does not only affect the patient but also the people living with him/her. They too get concerned with their unusual behaviour and lack of enthusiasm to talk to people and take part in various activities. Stigma does not just affect the one going through worse mental health, but also those people who are worried about him.
Stigma health is a rising global concern as it affects each and every one. The negative behaviour that you show does not do any good to people; rather it breaks them more emotionally. Be empathetic towards people and do not push them to social inclusion.
