Prevention
Stigma associated with mental illness is very complex. Despite extensive research, there is no optimal intervention or method to fight stigma. Given its long-standing nature and the multiple levels at which it occurs, both individual, public as well as structural, means that interventions to overcome stigma need to be done at these levels as well, as targeting only a particular level is insufficient.
Stigma associated with mental illness is very complex. Despite extensive research, there is no optimal intervention or method to fight stigma. Given its long-standing nature and the multiple levels at which it occurs, both individual, public as well as structural, means that interventions to overcome stigma need to be done at these levels as well, as targeting only a particular level is insufficient.
Fighting stigma on individual level
Stigma can be reduced by interpersonal contact with members of the stigmatized group. The type of contact is
however crucial for a positive outcome and should optimally incorporate several factors. By tackling self-stigma,
caused by internalized public stigma, the affected individual will get a stronger sense of empowerment which will
contribute to stigma reduction.
however crucial for a positive outcome and should optimally incorporate several factors. By tackling self-stigma,
caused by internalized public stigma, the affected individual will get a stronger sense of empowerment which will
contribute to stigma reduction.
Erasing public stigma
There are several approaches for addressing public stigma, including protest, education and media. Both when
it comes to protest and education, how these interventions are carried out is crucial in order to erase stigma and
not instead create adversive effects.
it comes to protest and education, how these interventions are carried out is crucial in order to erase stigma and
not instead create adversive effects.
Changing structures in society
Stigmatizing structures in form of legislations and policies need to be addressed and challenged. An example is
placing insurance coverage for mental illness on the same level as coverage for physical illness. Laws regarding
voting, marriage and custody need to be examined, as well as issues of criminalization and research funding.
placing insurance coverage for mental illness on the same level as coverage for physical illness. Laws regarding
voting, marriage and custody need to be examined, as well as issues of criminalization and research funding.
Let's talk about mental illness…
One of the ways to challenge stigma is to talk about it, here you can share your own story and interact with others.
Useful links
Learn more about mental illness and organizations working to fight stigma.