Learn About Stigma
WHAT IS STIGMA
Stigma refers to negative attitudes, beliefs,
and stereotypes people may hold towards
those who experience mental health conditions.

The Facts On Stigma

Stigma often comes from lack of understanding or fear. Inaccurate or misleading media representations of mental illness contribute to both those factors.
A review of studies on stigma shows that
while the public may accept the medical or genetic nature of a mental health disorder and the need for treatment,
many people still have a negative view of those with mental illness.

Researchers
identify different
types of stigma:

Public Stigma

involves the negative or discriminatory attitudes
that others may have about mental illness.

Self-Stigma

refers to the negative attitudes,
including internalized shame,
that people with mental illness may have about their own condition.

Structural Stigma

is more systemic, involving policies of government
and private organizations that intentionally or unintentionally
limit opportunities for people with mental illness.
Examples include lower funding for mental illness research
or fewer mental health services relative to other health care.