Stigma

stigma

• negative social attitude attached to a characteristic of an individual that may be regarded as a physical, mental or social deficiency

• stigma implies social disapproval and can lead to discrimination against and exclusion of the individual

mental health stigma

negative, judgmental and/or discriminatory stereotypes and attitudes towards mental health challenges and people living with mental health conditions

what are the different types of stigma?

• public stigma

• self stigma

• structural stigma

public stigma

endorsement of negative stereotypes of individuals with a specific condition by others, such as family and the general public

consequences of public stigma?

• prejudice

• discrimination

• restricted access to public services

• limited social participation

self-stigma

occurs when stigmatized individuals agree with and internalize societal stereotypes

consequences of self-stigma

• reduced self-esteem and self-efficacy

• shame and secrecy about one’s condition

• avoidance of treatment and support

• decreased motivation for recovery

• social withdrawal and isolation

• acceptance of discrimination as “deserved”

structural stigma

occurs when society and societal institutions operate in ways that weave inequities and injustices into their laws, policies and practices

stigma cycle

each form of stigma reinforces others, creating a cycle that:

• prevents help-seeking behaviors

• worsens health outcomes

• strengthens discriminatory systems

• deepens social isolation

stigma and acquired disability

• often destabilized identity, roles and sense of competence

• leads to overall surge in psychological distress

• acquired conditions are frequently interpreted through blame and perceived controllability

consequences of experiencing mental health stigma

• negative effects on health and well-being

• barriers to accessing care

• social exclusion and reduced participation

• economic disadvantage

• system-level discrimination

stigma and occupational injustice

stigma creates

• occupational deprivation

• occupational alienation

• occupational marginalization

OT’s role in addressing stigma

• recognize stigma when it shows up

• use respectful, person-centered language

• create welcoming, stigma-free therapeutic services

• validate client’s experiences of stigma

• advocate for integrated mental health care

what are some individual actions to reduce stigma?

• use respectful and person-first language

• talk about mental health in straightforward manner

• be open-minded and ready to learn

• call out stigmatizing language when heard

• show compassion