6 Stigma
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Deirdre Heenan
Abstract
Mental health stigma is internalised by individuals and may act as a barrier to individuals seeking treatment services. It is associated with poorer recovery from mental illness and lower self-esteem. Stigma, prejudice and discrimination can be subtle or obvious, and they are associated with harm and marginalisation. This chapter looks at the nature of stigma and outlines three types of stigma – self-stigma, public stigma and structural stigma. It examines the impact, including on employment. It also highlights that language can reinforce stigma. The concept of toxic masculinity is discussed. Finally, interventions to reduce stigma are discussed and the extent to which they have achieved their aims and objectives is assessed.
Abstract
Mental health stigma is internalised by individuals and may act as a barrier to individuals seeking treatment services. It is associated with poorer recovery from mental illness and lower self-esteem. Stigma, prejudice and discrimination can be subtle or obvious, and they are associated with harm and marginalisation. This chapter looks at the nature of stigma and outlines three types of stigma – self-stigma, public stigma and structural stigma. It examines the impact, including on employment. It also highlights that language can reinforce stigma. The concept of toxic masculinity is discussed. Finally, interventions to reduce stigma are discussed and the extent to which they have achieved their aims and objectives is assessed.
Chapters in this book
- Front Matter i
- Contents iii
- List of figures, tables and boxes vi
- Introduction: Why mental health matters 1
- Mental health and mental illness 9
- Development of policy 43
- Organisation of mental health services 65
- The rise of the service user movement and the concept of recovery 93
- Social determinants of mental health 127
- Stigma 151
- The media and mental health 179
- Conclusion 199
- Glossary 209
- References 211
- Index 253
Chapters in this book
- Front Matter i
- Contents iii
- List of figures, tables and boxes vi
- Introduction: Why mental health matters 1
- Mental health and mental illness 9
- Development of policy 43
- Organisation of mental health services 65
- The rise of the service user movement and the concept of recovery 93
- Social determinants of mental health 127
- Stigma 151
- The media and mental health 179
- Conclusion 199
- Glossary 209
- References 211
- Index 253
