Mental health is a topic we all need to think about. It is just as important as our physical health. Mental health is the component of behavioral health that includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being and enables individuals to cope with life’s challenges, recognize their strengths, learn and succeed, and actively participate in their communities. When we avoid discussing mental health openly and honestly, it maintains the idea that it is a taboo subject. This can increase stigma, which, for some, may lead to a delay in seeking or receiving the care they need.
What is Stigma?
According to Webster’s dictionary, stigma is a set of negative and unfair beliefs that a society or group of people have about something. People generally communicate stigma in three main ways: through attitudes and beliefs, language, and behavior.
How is Stigma Expressed in the Area of Mental Health?
The conversation around mental health has advanced significantly over the last decade. However, many people living with mental health conditions still experience stigma across generations, cultures, and societies. Stigma can take different forms:
- Structural Stigma: Policies, political systems, legal frameworks, or institutional barriers that limit access to mental health care.
- Public Stigma: Negative attitudes of large groups of people towards mental health. For example, statements such as “insert name is bipolar” or using words such as crazy, junkie, or addict. It may also look like behaviors such as gossiping or minimizing or dismissing someone’s experiences.
- Self-Stigma: When individuals with mental health concerns internalize negative beliefs, viewing their condition as a personal flaw or blaming themselves for their struggles. For example, “I am just weak for feeling this way” or “I am a failure because I need therapy or medication.”
Before we talk about impact and solutions, take a moment and reflect. Have you ever experienced stigma, and how did it make you feel or impact your decision?
Stigma Impact: What can we do about it?
The stigma around mental health can stop people from asking for help, delay diagnoses, and make it harder to stick with treatment. This can worsen mental health and lead to isolation. According to the CDC, we can fight stigma by educating others, raising awareness, and building supportive communities where mental health is openly discussed. By challenging myths and offering support, we can help everyone feel comfortable focusing on their mental well-being.
Let’s work together to break the stigma and make mental health a topic we can all discuss with care and understanding.
Next Steps
Consider registering for Adult Mental Health First Aid to gain the knowledge and skills to support someone experiencing a mental health challenge. This evidence-based program teaches participants how to recognize early signs of mental health issues, respond effectively during a mental health crisis, and provide reassurance while connecting individuals to appropriate professional support.
By completing this course, you’ll feel more confident in having open and honest conversations about mental health, whether with friends, family, coworkers, or community members.
Testimonial:
“After completing the Mental Health First Aid course, I felt equipped to help someone I care about navigate their mental health challenges. I learned how to listen without judgment and guide them toward the resources they needed. It’s truly empowering to know I can make a difference.” – Program Participant MHFA Connect.
Sign up today to join this transformative program and contribute to breaking the stigma around mental health. (Add registration link)
For additional resources and support, visit:
- American Psychological Association
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
- National Institute of Mental Health
Reference
What is mental health and why is it important for you? | JFCS of Greater Mercer County. https://www.jfcsonline.org/2022/11/what-is-mental-health-and-why-is-it-important-for-you/
Mental health stigma. (2024, August 8). Mental Health. https://www.cdc.gov/mental-health/stigma/index.html
Stigma. (2025). In Merriam-Webster Dictionary. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stigma
Mental Health First Aid USA. (2025, January 8). Mental Health First Aid. https://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org/
OpenAI. (2025). ChatGPT [Large language model]. https://chatgpt.com
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