Breaking the Stigma: Embracing the Importance of Seeking Help

According to the American Psychiatric Association (2024), over half of individuals living with mental health conditions do not receive the necessary support. A major barrier to accessing help is the stigma surrounding mental illness, which often prevents people from seeking assistance due to fear of judgment or mistreatment. This external prejudice can lead individuals to internalize negative perceptions, further deterring them from seeking necessary support (Maharjan & Pantheen, 2019). Their study reveals that internalized stigma among psychiatric patients varies significantly, with prevalence rates ranging from 22.5% to as high as 97.4% in some countries.

Impact of stigma

The profound impact of stigma on mental illness is often underestimated. As noted by Corrigan and Watson (2002) in the World Psychiatric Association Journal, stigma is frequently referred to as a “second illness” due to the added burden it imposes. Fear of societal judgment frequently leads individuals to avoid seeking help, which can exacerbate their condition. This societal reluctance to accept mental health issues can negatively affect multiple aspects of life, from the workplace to personal relationships.

Stigma can delay or prevent individuals from seeking the help they need, which can worsen symptoms and contribute to the progression of mental disorders. The Mental Health Foundation (2021) highlights that stigma often traps individuals in a “cycle of illness,” where untreated symptoms persist due to the fear of negative perceptions.

Types of Stigma

Stigma manifests in various forms, each with distinct effects on those affected. Swain (2022) outlines several types:

1. Public Stigma: Misinformation and misconceptions about mental illness lead to prejudiced reactions toward individuals experiencing mental health challenges.

2. Self-Stigma: Individuals internalize societal stigma, feeling ashamed of their condition, which discourages them from seeking professional help.

3. Perceived Stigma: People may assume, whether accurately or not, that others will judge them negatively for their mental illness, further deterring them from seeking assistance.

4. Label Avoidance: Fear of being diagnosed and subsequently labeled often leads individuals to avoid seeking a diagnosis, in an effort to prevent negative treatment or discrimination.

Seek Help Now

It is essential to prioritize both our physical and mental health. No one should have to face mental health challenges alone. It is important to encourage individuals to seek the support they or their loved ones may need. Reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness and normalizing help-seeking behavior are vital steps toward fostering a healthier, more compassionate society. Do not hesitate to seek assistance or share this message with someone who might benefit from it.

Dorotheos Charalambous, Psychologist