Mental health has long been talked about in hushed tones, especially among older generations. Unfortunately, this attitude has led to many people hiding their mental health issues instead of seeking help from a therapist or mental health rehab. Since mental illness often worsens over time without proper attention and care, this decision can be devastating.
The good news is that many individuals and organizations are seeking to remove the shame surrounding mental illness. The goal of their combined endeavors is to make mental health services as normal and socially acceptable as physical healthcare services. Whether you have a loved one with mental illness or you’re facing your own mental health battle, you can join the movement. Here’s why mental health matters so much and what you can do to help break the stigma currently surrounding it.
What Is the Mental Health Stigma?
The term “mental health stigma” comes with negative stereotypes, attitudes, and beliefs many people have against those with mental illness. It can lead to social exclusion, discrimination, and labeling. These actions, in turn, can cause people with mental health struggles to feel embarrassed, ashamed, and alone. It may also discourage them from seeking professional help through a therapist or rehab for depression.
Examples of mental health stigma include labeling people with depression and other mental health conditions as “crazy” or “insane.” These labels can be harmful and spread the idea that people with mental health conditions are dangerous and can’t be trusted. In other cases, stigma can lead employers to reject job applications from people with mental illness who are qualified for the position.
Why Mental Health Matters
It’s crucial to support rather than discourage others or yourself from seeking mental health care. Seeking inpatient treatment for severe mental health concerns is a sign of strength rather than an indication of weakness or mental fragility. You or a loved one may benefit from mental health rehab if you have severe depression, think about suicide, or self-medicate with alcohol or drugs.
Mental health affects physical health, self-image, relationships, and well-being. Someone who cares for their mental health tends to handle stress better, make wise choices, and build more meaningful relationships. Prioritizing mental health can help anyone achieve greater emotional balance and foster resilience.
How to Break the Mental Health Stigma
Now that you know how harmful mental health stigma can be, it’s time to discover how you can help break it. Through your words and actions, you can help your friends, family members, colleagues, and neighbors develop a more positive outlook on mental health. Here are a few suggestions to help you get started.
Educate Yourself and Others
Before you can dismantle misconceptions surrounding any subject, it’s crucial to become as familiar with that subject as possible. That’s why education is one of the first steps toward breaking the mental health stigma. The more you know about mental health illnesses, why they occur, and how they’re treated, the easier it will become for you to educate others.
It’s imperative to turn to authoritative, reputable sources when researching mental health topics. Look online for websites ending in “.gov” or “.org” when learning the basics about mental health. When you find good resources, share them with others to help challenge harmful or outdated beliefs.
Show Compassion for Those With Mental Health Concerns
Whether you’re the one with mental health concerns or someone else you know, always show compassion. Recognize that just like mental illness is just as prevalent as physical illnesses or injuries. It also deserves the same level of empathy care.
Supporting someone you love with their mental health concerns may be as simple as listening to them without judgment or checking on them regularly. You can also show your support by encouraging them to go to an anxiety and depression treatment center as needed. Normalize seeking help and aid them in understanding that mental health interventions can assist them in leading more fulfilling lives.
Support Mental Health Initiatives
You can make a difference in your community by supporting local mental health programs. Advocate for school, workplace, and community mental health initiatives whenever possible. Be loud about raising awareness of mental illness and how important early treatment can be for improving quality of life. Never use disparaging or judgmental tones or phrases when discussing the pervasiveness of mental illness and how to address it. If you notice others using stigmatizing language, correct them gently but firmly.
You may want to schedule a meeting with community leaders and planners to figure out how to support local mental health needs. You could also organize educational seminars, fundraisers, and peer support groups to bring attention to this important issue. Whether large or small, any effort you make can help bring the community together and provide a safe space for those with mental health challenges.
Conclusion
Pathways is a trusted provider of outpatient and inpatient treatment for substance abuse. We have a partial hospitalization program, intensive outpatient program, and standard outpatient counseling. We’ll help you or your loved one determine which option is the best solution for your needs. If you or a loved one is ready to break the mental health stigma and progress toward healthier, more independent living, contact us today.
