HIGHLIGHTS

• Stigma surrounding mental health can make it difficult for individuals to seek the help they need.
• Five things can be done to help patients overcome stigma attached to mental illness.
• Psychologists from HelloDr can suggest ways to overcome stigma.
• BEGAL can help to evaluate mental illness. 

Mental illness stigma refers to negative attitudes, beliefs, and stereotypes surrounding mental health conditions. The way affects millions of people worldwide clearly explain how serious it is as a global issue. Unfortunately, there is still a significant amount of stigma surrounding mental health, making it difficult for individuals to seek the help they need. Overcoming mental illness stigma is essential for individuals with mental health conditions to receive the support and care they need.

Here are five things that can be done to overcome mental illness stigma:

Educating Everyone: 

is a powerful tool to overcome mental illness stigma. One of the most important steps that society can take is that an individual should educate himself/herself and others about what mental illness is and how it affects people. This includes learning about different mental illnesses, their symptoms, and their various treatments. By understanding these issues, one can better empathize with those struggling with mental health challenges. Raising awareness about mental health conditions, their causes, and their treatments can help dispel misconceptions and myths. It is important to educate people about the reality of mental illness and that it is a medical condition like any other.

Speaking Out Against Stigmatizing Language:

Words deeply matter when it comes to mental health. The language people use can either perpetuate or challenge mental illness stigma. Using stigmatizing language like "crazy," "insane," or "psycho" only perpetuates harmful stereotypes and makes it harder for people to feel comfortable seeking help. Instead, society as a whole should aim to use language that is respectful and inclusive of everyone. Using person-first language (e.g., "person with schizophrenia" instead of "schizophrenic") can help to reduce stigma by emphasizing the person rather than their diagnosis.

Share Personal Story (If Possible):

If an individual has had some mental illness in the past, then sharing his/her own experiences with mental health challenges can be a powerful way to break down stigma and encourage others to seek support as well. Of course, this is not something everyone feels comfortable doing – but speaking out can be incredibly empowering for those who do. This can inspire many mental health patients who will think that if this person can overcome mental illness, then so can I.

Supporting Mental Health Initiatives:

Many organizations are working tirelessly to fight against mental illness stigma – from grassroots groups to larger advocacy organizations. By supporting these initiatives through donations or volunteering, people can help amplify their message and make a difference in the lives of those affected by mental health challenges. Supporting individuals with mental health conditions can help them feel less isolated and alone. Support can come in the form of emotional support, practical support, or peer support. Contacting people with mental health conditions can help reduce stigma by challenging negative stereotypes and assumptions. Encouraging positive interactions with such people can help to build empathy and understanding.

Advocating Better Policies:

People should advocate for policies that support individuals living with mental illness – whether that means pushing for better access to healthcare, promoting workplace accommodations for those who need them, or fighting against discrimination in all its forms. By working together on these fronts, we can create a society that prioritizes the well-being of all its members. Advocacy can help to raise awareness, change policies, and reduce stigma.

Experts Can Help with Planning Healthy Interactions

On HelloDr, people who know mental illness patients can search and find experts who can help them plan conversations to help patients overcome stigma. 

Evaluate Mental Health with BEGAL

HelloDr offers BEGAL to evaluate the level of mental illness that a brain might be suffering from. BEGAL is an Electroencephalography (EEG) device. Monitoring the brain's electrical activity, the EEG signals measured by BEGAL help determine how healthy the brain is or how prone it is to any mental illness. Click here to join the waiting list and place your purchase order to be a proud owner of the new BEGAL.