Mental illness is a problem affecting people around the world daily and many people do not understand the symptoms, cause and effects of mental illness. Many people think you have to be crazy and locked up in a psychiatric ward to be considered mentally ill. There are different types of mental illness such as severe depression, panic attacks, schizophrenia, dementia, eating disorders and alcohol and drug addiction. According to Mayo clinic staff there are hurtful words such as 'psycho, schizo and jokes about mental health on television such as loony bins and characters in straitjackets' (Mayo clinic, 2007). These are perceptions that some of us have about mental illness. These jokes are shameful and painful to the individual and their family. Stigma includes labeling, Stereotyping, creating a division and discriminating (Mayo clinic, 2007). Educating each other and raising awareness is a great way to understand and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness . The mayo clinic suggest some ways to erase stigma such as open discussions, coping with stigma, get treated, have the support of family and friends, share your experience and join an advocacy group. We should help eliminate the stigma about mental illness by learning, being supportive, be an advocate and participating in events to help people with mental illnesses.
Reference
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2007). Mental health: Overcoming the stigma of mental illness. Retrieved on April 24, 2009 from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/mental-health/MH00076
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