Stigma is Greek for "sign" and it has come to refer to a characteristic or set of characteristics that bring shame to an individual or group who bear this "sign" or stereotyped label.
A brand, stain, blemish, defect, a scar - a mark of shame or discredit. Stigma is the use of negative labels to identify a person. Mental illness carries a stigma. It is about disrespect and keeps people struggling with a mental illness in the closet.
Stigma is a barrier and discourages individuals and their families from getting the help they need. It closes minds and fuels discrimination. Many say that living with the stigma is worse than living with the illness itself.
Take steps to end stigma …
Learn more about mental health and mental illness through local, provincial and national mental health organizations (see useful links and where to get help on this site).
Insist on accountable media. Sometimes the media portray people who have mental illness inaccurately and this makes stereotypes more difficult to change.
Obey the laws. Discrimination on the basis of physical or mental disability is prohibited by human rights legislation in Canada.
Recognize and appreciate the contributions to society made by people who have a mental illness. From the arts to the sciences, from medicine to entertainment to professional sports, people who have a mental illness are major contributors to Canadian life.
Treat people with the dignity and respect we all deserve. People who have a mental illness may include your friends, your neighbours, and your family.
Think about the person. Think about the contents behind the label. Avoid seeing people through their diagnosis. Instead of saying, ‘She’s a schizophrenic,’ say, ‘She has a mental illness.’
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