May is Mental Health Month, and even though school is winding down, it’s the perfect time to learn about mental health and ways to fight stigma.
If you are experiencing or have a history of mental illness, what are comments you’ve received from your family or friends?
“Why can’t you just be happy?”
“She’s just looking for attention.”
If you are experiencing or have a history of mental illness, what are comments you’ve told yourself?
“Why try? I’m not good enough.”
“No one will love me looking like this.”
These are just a few examples that came to mind. Individuals experience negative stereotypes because others perceive them as “different.” Stigma is the process of distinguishing and labeling group differences, stereotyping and separating “us” vs. “them,” as well as status loss and discrimination.
In America, 1 in 5 adults will have a mental illness during their lifetime. Nearly 60% of adults with mental illnesses do not receive treatment in a given year. Stigma generates shame, hopelessness, exclusion, lack of social support and low self-esteem. Those impacted by stigma are less likely to seek help and accept help if offered.
So how do we fight stigma? I have been a member as well as president of the Active Minds chapter on my university’s campus, and if anyone is familiar with the organization, you’ll easily recognize the phrase “Stigma Fighter.” It’s a name I proudly call myself, and it adequately describes the battle needed to challenge mental health stigma. I encourage you to become an advocate and fight the stigma surrounding mental health.
Here are five ways to challenge mental health stigma:
1. Learn the facts
Educate yourself about mental health and mental illness. If you learn the facts, you can teach others.
2. Speak up
Assist your friends or family members any time they display false beliefs or say stigmatizing and hurtful comments. Use this as a chance to educate and challenge. Many times people are misinformed and do not know that what they believe to be true is really just stereotypes and misconceptions. Test any false and stigmatizing comments and images portrayed in the media…
To continue reading this from our partner, Proud2BMe, click here.
Need A Massage? Learn How To Give One To Yourself And Your Loved Ones
Receiving a massage, whether it’s given by someone else or self-administered, can help loosen your muscles and establish a better connection not only with your body but also with the people you love.
