Stigma and discrimination in relation to mental illnesses have been described as having worse consequences than the conditions themselves. So why, with increased awareness and so much positive talk about the importance of whole-person health, does mental health stigma still persist? And why do we have such a hard time talking about our own mental health struggles?
In any given year, 20 percent of the U.S. population suffers from mental illness and, over a lifetime, roughly 50 percent receive a diagnosis. Depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD and other mental health conditions are commonplace today, but more than half of those with a mental illness don’t receive help. While other factors also contribute, that mental health stigma is still a barrier to seeking treatment for so many.
Mental Illness in the Media
The media hasn’t always done the topic of mental health any favors. While Hollywood has provided some layered, compassionate, thoughtful takes mental illness over the years, they’ve also been part of the problem, often showing mentally ill individuals as violent or unpredictable, reinforcing stigmas and justifying the public fear that already exists around some mental illnesses.
The big (and little) screens are only part of the problem. News coverage has also contributed to negative stereotypes. Nearly four in 10 news stories about mental illness analyzed by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health researchers connect mental illness with violent behavior toward others, even though less than five percent of violence in the United States is directly related to mental illness.
In that same Johns Hopkins Bloomberg study, the researchers analyzed a random sample of 400 news stories about mental illness over a 20-year period that appeared in 11 high-circulation, high-viewership U.S. media outlets. The most frequently mentioned topic across the study period was violence (55%), with 38% mentioning violence against others and 29% linking mental illness with suicide. Treatment is mentioned in 47% of stories, but just 14% described successful treatment for or recovery from mental illness.
It’s not just mental illness that the media and pop culture skew or get wrong. Race, gender, faith and other topics have all been mishandled in film and on TV. But just as other groups have done, it’s important to call out misrepresentation, and to also bring attention to and celebrate the honest portrayals we see. The Guest House even incorporates this practice into their treatment program with Cinema Therapy, allowing clients to view and discuss film portrayals of mental illness and addiction. That’s how the stigma will lessen.
Starting a Conversation About Mental Illness
Public portrayals of mental illness are one thing, but for many, the topic turns personal. If you are concerned about your own mental health and needs support, speaking up is the first step. Still, it can be hard to tell those closest to you about what’s going on. You may not even know how to start. Fortunately, Mental Health America offers the following tips for talking to loved ones about your mental health:
- Have the conversation when there is enough time to have an in-depth discussion.
- Star with a text if a face-to-face talk is too intimidating.
- Find and share information, so you can help educate your loved one about what you’re going through.
Opening up about a mental health issue or concern is hard, but chances are you’ll feel relieved once it’s over. Afterward, many admit to feeling like a weight has been lifted and they’re less alone. Of course, not everyone understands or responds how we hope. Even if you didn’t get the reaction you wanted, taking this initial step is something you should be proud of. Don’t go back to ignoring your situation or struggling alone. Continue talking and be proactive about getting the help you need.
Tips for Lending a Listening Ear
What if someone wants to talk to you about their mental health? How can you make sure it’s a positive experience and you’re offering support?
Listen. Being a successful listener starts with simply listening. Let them finish their sentences and complete thoughts without interrupting. Then, after they have finished you can respond.
Let them know you understand. It helps a lot for someone to know they aren’t alone. I’ve you’ve been there, let them know — just make sure you don’t switch the topic of conversation to your struggles, though. This conversation is about their needs.
Avoid being judgmental. Don’t make them feel judged for what they’re going through or for needing help. It’s not productive to the process.
Take them seriously. Try not to respond with statements that minimize how they’re feeling or what they are going through, such as, “You’re just having a bad week,” or “I’m sure it’s nothing.” Don’t be dismissive because you feel uncomfortable or just want them be okay. You don’t have to have all the answers. This is about listening.
Make yourself available to talk again if needed. While it can be a big relief for someone to share something they have been keeping secret, mental health struggles usually aren’t solved with one conversation. Let the person who has spoken with you know that they can reach out to you again if they are having a tough time.
If a problem requires more help than you are qualified to give, help them find the appropriate resources or reach out to an expert. If someone is in immediate danger, call or text 988, the new mental health crisis line in the U.S.
SOURCE: Mental Health America
Overcoming Stigma at The Guest House
At The Guest House, we know that addressing mental health issues like trauma, anxiety and depression, PTSD or OCD are only part of a whole-person solution. We also have to help educate clients on the facts of mental illness, dispel the myths, and explore how stigma may negatively impact their future recovery. Our goal is for everyone who comes through our doors to leave equipped with the tools to avoid self-stigma, have the important conversations they need to have with loved ones and others, and know that they can achieve lasting healing.
Keeping the Conversation Going
In the end, we need to remember that stigma thrives on ignorance, fear and prejudice. We’ve made great progress, but we need to keep working to truly destigmatize mental health. It’s up to all of us to continue to champion mental health awareness until someone feels as free to discuss their mental health issues as they would any physical health issue.
How can we do that? Here are five ways to reduce the mental health stigma:
- Increase public education and awareness.
- Promote accurate and positive media portrayals.
- Advocate for policies that support mental health.
- Encourage open and honest conversations about mental health.
- Encourage compassion, and empathy.
SOURCE: National Alliance on Mental Illness
Ready to Go Beyond Talking?
Seeking professional treatment for your mental health issues shouldn’t come with a stigma attached. At The Guest House, you’ll find care and understanding from our expert clinical team to help you find a new way forward and claim the life that you deserve. To learn more about our personalized, state-of-the-art treatment programs, contact us today.