People with mental health problems often suffer stigma and discrimination.
There is a lot of false belief about mental illness.
Whilst a lot of work is being done to bust the myths and talk about mental health, some people still need educating!
How did you do?
Expand the sections below to see the truths behind some of the common myths…
So why do people believe these myths?
There are many reasons for discrimination against people who have mental health challenges.
Click on the markers below to see some of these reasons…
Mental health stigma can make it harder for people to make friends, become and remain employed, access housing and other services.
Stigma and discrimination does not promote a healthy recovery. Infact, it can make people hide their illness more. In a study published in the British Journal of Psychiatry, 83% of participants felt conscious of the stigma associated with mental illness and had difficulty seeking help.
Only 54% of study participants had discussed having suicidal thoughts with their family, peers or spouses.
That means 46% kept quiet!
The perceived stigma can mean feelings of shame and can lead to poorer treatment outcomes.
– Source: Psychology Today.
Stigma negatively affects recovery, so, how can we overcome stigma?
Fortunately people are talking about mental health much more.
Reputable organisations, such as MIND and Time to Change, carry out major campaigns. We now have awareness days, weeks and months that take place in the UK and across the world.
You can find out more about these organisations via these links to their websites:
mentalhealth.org.uk Mental Health Awareness Week
The awareness events are an opportunity for people to talk about all aspects of mental health, with a focus on providing help and advice. They are also educating people who believe the myths.
time-to-change.org.uk
Mental Health Calendar
mind.org.uk Stories From Mind
Lots of publicity is now happening and people are talking like the people in videos which can be viewed from the MIND website via this link…
The Equality Act 2010
The law also helps: – The Equality Act 2010 protects disabled people and their carers from unfair treatment. This includes many people with a mental illness.
Break Free
By breaking the stigma, talking about mental health and stopping the shame and embarrassment associated with mental illness, we can help people get the support they need.
.svg)
