Throughout September we have been recognizing Recovery and addiction, September is also Suicide Prevention month. I am using this last day of September to define stigma, its impact on us, and what we can do about it. Stigma is a complex of negative attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors that lead to discrimination against us.
I have had people say to me, “You can’t be depressed, you’re so happy” or “If you go outside you will feel better”. My last employer began to view me differently after I returned to work from a three-month medical leave. For example; if I forgot something my boss connected it to my mental health. I did have a few challenges with my memory but my boss did nothing to help support me.
Why is stigma such a barrier in our lives?
- It leads to delayed treatment-seeking behavior.
- Social Isolation and discrimination.
- Reduces following through with treatment.
- Family, friends, and employer’s attitudes toward us.
- Ethnic and cultural attitudes – “If you pray to God you will no longer need medication”.
What are the effects of stigma?
- Internalize negative beliefs
- Social Isolation
- Low self-esteem
- Hopelessness
- Shame
- Avoiding treatment
- Worsening symptoms
- Discrimination at work
- Unemployment
- Lashing out is a defense mechanism
What strategies can we use to address stigma?
- Challenge common myths about mental health and replace them with accurate information.
- Peer Support Programs.
- Engage with peers.
- Educate ourselves and others.
- Talk about it.
- Advocate
- Be mindful of the language used.
- Show compassion.
- Choose empowerment over shame.
- Don’t harbor self-stigma.
- Stay calm.
- Actively listen.
Stigma is a mark of shame society often gives to people with mental health, addiction, and trauma conditions. When stigma spreads, it can affect anything from our personal safety to the quality of our medical care. When we face stigma, it can help to remember it is just social judgment, not a fact. Stigma does not determine our self-worth or the types of life we can lead. I hope the efforts I am making by sharing my journey, https://superhumanbeing.net/ doing a daily blog, and facilitating a weekly peer support group, will contribute to reducing stigma within myself, my family, my friends, and the community.
SuperHuman Being
Peace
Larry
email: ljw@superhumanbeing.net
website: https://superhumanbeing.net/