It seems that any time we hear the words “suicide” or “mental health”, the word stigma follows right after. The word “stigma”, according to the Oxford Dictionary, means a “mark of disgrace”.
Instead of talking about stigma incessantly, let’s stop to consider how by focusing on it, we ensure it stays in place, forever associated with mental health challenges. The net result is that people who are struggling are all too often reluctant to seek help, since they are constantly reminded that having a mental health issue is a mark of disgrace.
What if we reframe stigma as a form of bias, rather than something to be ashamed of? Doing so would help normalize help-seeking for mental health concerns, creating the expectation that getting help is reasonable and even preferable.
Is stigma a form of discrimination and prejudice?
A body of literature is growing that indicates the fear of being stigmatized is a barrier to help-seeking. The take-away therefore is that stigma is more than merely a set of negative attitudes or a lack of awareness; it is a form of discrimination and prejudice. This shift in perspective, advocated by experts such as Dr. Jenn Stuber, reframes our approach to breaking down barriers to care, widens the lens from merely changing people’s attitudes to instead changing people’s behaviors.
In that context, stigmatizing mental health becomes a violation of human rights where people with mental health challenges are not only perceived negatively, but treated differently and unfairly. This can manifest in various forms, from being excluded from social activities to not having access to employment, healthcare. It can even impact one’s family dynamics.
The article "Stigma: Reframing the Discrimination and Prejudice Model" highlights how this form of stigma is often rooted in deep-seated biases that label those with mental health issues as "other." This labeling perpetuates a cycle of alienation and discourages individuals from seeking help, as they fear judgment and ostracization. Understanding stigma as discrimination underscores the need for systemic changes that address these biases and create an environment where seeking help is normalized and encouraged.
What is the 'Contact Approach'?
One of the most effective strategies to focus less on stigma and more on social justice is the "contact approach," a concept championed by Patrick Corrigan. This approach is based on the idea that personal interaction with individuals who have experienced mental health challenges can significantly reduce prejudice.
Corrigan's research demonstrates that direct contact with individuals who have lived experience of mental health challenges is more effective in reducing stigma than traditional methods such as awareness campaigns or educational programs.
When people share their stories, it breaks down the barriers of "us versus them" and fosters a sense of shared humanity, allowing us to see each other as human beings who struggle, rather than as "other", and allows our biases to diminish. This human connection fosters empathy, understanding, and ultimately, a more inclusive environment where seeking help is seen as a strength rather than a weakness.
Reframing stigma as discrimination and focusing on humanizing the mental health struggle, we can create an environment where help-seeking and help-offering are not just sanctioned but routine. Through strategies like the “contact approach,” leading by example, needs assessments, and empowering individuals to find the right support, we can break down the barriers to help-seeking and build a more inclusive and mentally healthy society.