Most people who live with mental illness have, at some point, been blamed for their condition or have been ridiculed. Their symptoms have been referred to as “a phase” or “a bad patch” and something they can control “if only they tried” or could “think more positively.”
Stigma consists of the society’s negative stereotypes against people with mental illness, as well as the stigma that occurs when people with mental health concerns internalise these negative stereotypes. The two are evidently interrelated and working to change society’s view, can help numerous people suffering with their illness and this perceived shame.
Here are some ways in which we can fight this stigma towards mental illness.
1. Talk Openly About Mental Health
A lot of us speak in hushed tones when discussing someone’s mental health issues. Instead, talk freely when discussing your own concerns or talking to somebody else about theirs. At such times, social media can be a great platform to reach the masses. Education campaigns held by mental health professionals, targeting the general public, as well as specific target groups like students, teachers and police personnel, can help build awareness.
2. Educate Yourself and Others
When conversing with others about mental illness and its treatment, make sure you are accurate with the knowledge you share. Various misconceptions exist regarding mental illness, and spreading false or incorrect information will only increase the stigma. In case you are unsure of an illness or its treatment process, make sure you accept your unfamiliarity with the topic and ask the person to speak to a professional in the field.
3. Be Conscious of Language
Using mental health conditions as adjectives is a common occurrence. We sometimes also use words like “depressed” when referring to a feeling of sadness. Using language more consciously and being more aware of its implications is important. People become more aware of various mental health conditions and may become more considerate when they are explained how their language is problematic.
4. Encourage Equality Between Physical and Mental Illness
When people understand that a mental illness is in fact a disorder with a biological basis, they may think twice before passing comments or trivializing the illness. People must realise that if they don’t judge or comment on people with diabetes or cancer or a heart disease, depression, schizophrenia or any other mental illness should be no different. Expressing empathy towards those with physical and mental illness is important.
5. Show Compassion for Those with Mental Illness
Educate yourself regarding mental illnesses and show compassion and empathy towards those who are suffering. Talk to people who are suffering openly and show affection towards them. Many of our homeless population are also struggling with mental illness, and a simple act of showing concern and warmth can improve their day and also remind passersby to be kind.
6. Choose Empowerment Over Shame
For those of you suffering from a mental illness, living an empowered life, owning your life and your story, and refusing to allow others to dictate how you view yourself, can help fight the stigma towards mental illness. Leading by example can go a long way.
7. Be Honest About Treatment
Owning your life and your story also includes being upfront about your treatment. Being honest, clear and confident when speaking about visiting a psychologist or psychiatrist can help destigmatize mental illness. When you normalize your condition and treatment, people listening to you will think twice before discriminating against mental health conditions.
8. Let the Media Know When They’re Being Stigmatizing
The fictional portrayal of people with mental health concerns in cinema and television is often misleading and stigmatizing. If you notice a movie or TV show which uses negative stereotypes or an inaccurate portrayal of mental illness, make sure to write to the production or broadcasting company. Explaining how their comments and language are hurtful and judgmental, gives the company a chance to rectify their mistakes, and is likely to make them more mindful of the same, the next time around.
This is truly inspiring! We really need to stop being shy of talking about these issues and probably talk about them the way we might talk about a toothache!