Stigmatization Exacerbates Mental Illness

Have you noticed an uptick in mental health-related content appearing across all forms of media in recent years? Well, there is indeed a good reason for it, as mental disorders are being diagnosed at a much higher rate than in previous decades, not only in North America but globally. This significant upswing is thanks in part to advancements in the psychiatric information available, coupled with a decline in our collective mental well-being since the 1990s, leading to a further rise in diagnoses.

A black and white image of the back of a man standing in a completely dark room staring out a large window, demonstrating the feeling of being trapped and alone

The World Health Organization has stated that data revealed a staggering 970 million people worldwide were dealing with a mental health condition in 2019, just prior to the pandemic.

It is highly conceivable that this number has increased significantly in the subsequent years.

'In 2019, 970 million people globally were living with a mental disorder, with anxiety and depression the most common.' - World Health Organization

Given the notable increase in mental health issues and distress, it would be unwise for us as a society to think that returning to the pre-pandemic normal is still possible. The Covid-19 pandemic not only marked a new era for humanity in terms of mental health challenges but also initiated a new struggle to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health.

When people mention the stigma surrounding mental health, what are they referring to? Well, let's talk about it.

Eliminating the Stigma - Causes and Effects of Stigmatizing Mental Health

Unfortunately, the stigma surrounding mental illness worsens the situation by causing individuals to believe that there is a fundamental issue within them. However, we do not approach individuals with a broken leg or heart disease in the same way. It is evident that those with physical injuries or illnesses are not seen as having a profound internal defect that led to their condition, and the same should apply to those facing mental health challenges. Stigmatization is a complex and pervasive societal phenomenon that goes beyond negative labeling and prejudice. It is deeply rooted in societal norms and expectations, often leading to the marginalization of individuals who are perceived as deviating from these norms. This can have detrimental effects on both the mental and physical health of those who are stigmatized.

A mainly black image of a man in a dark room wearing a black hoodie, with the hood pulled up over his head and only a small portion of his face and hand are visible as he tries to hold his hood closed. This demonstrates how hurtful it can be to deal with being stigmatized for your mental health

The impact of stigmatization on mental health is profound. Individuals who experience stigmatization may internalize the negative labels imposed on them, leading to feelings of shame, guilt, and low self-esteem. This can contribute to the development of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and even post-traumatic stress disorder. Stigmatization can also create barriers to seeking help and support, as individuals may fear further judgment and discrimination.

In addition to its effects on mental health, stigmatization can also take a toll on physical health. Research has shown that individuals who are stigmatized are more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors such as substance abuse and risky sexual practices. This can increase their risk of developing chronic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Furthermore, the stress and anxiety caused by stigmatization can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to illness.

Overall, stigmatization is an all too common and harmful societal phenomenon that can have far-reaching consequences for the well-being of not only individuals but entire communities. It is important for society to work towards greater acceptance, understanding, and compassion in order to combat stigmatization and create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all. Addressing stigmatization requires initiatives in education, advocacy, and promoting empathy to reduce biases and discrimination.