Naadu sits quietly in the office breakroom, trying to hide the tears welling up in her eyes. She’s been feeling anxious for weeks, struggling to sleep, and dreading each day. When she finally opened up to a colleague, the response was dismissive: “You just need to toughen up.” Now, she feels even worse – isolated, ashamed, and afraid to seek help.
Naadu’s story is far too common. While mental health challenges affect millions worldwide, stigma continues to silence those who need help the most.
What Is Mental Health Stigma?
Stigma is the social disapproval or discrimination against individuals experiencing mental health conditions. It can manifest in different ways:
Public stigma – negative stereotypes like “people with mental illness are dangerous or weak.”
Self-stigma – when individuals internalize these beliefs, leading to shame and low self-esteem.
Institutional stigma – policies or systems that disadvantage those with mental health needs (e.g., inadequate healthcare access or workplace discrimination).
Why Stigma Is Harmful
Despite growing awareness, stigma remains a major barrier to mental health care:
According to the World Health Organization, 1 in 8 people globally live with a mental disorder, yet more than 75% of them in low- and middle-income countries receive no treatment at all.
A 2022 survey by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) found that 64% of people with mental illness said stigma and discrimination negatively impacted their lives.
Research shows that stigma can delay help-seeking by 6 to 8 years after symptoms first appear.
These numbers reveal just how deeply stigma affects access to care, emotional wellbeing, and long-term outcomes.
How to Challenge the Stigma
- Start Conversations
Talk about mental health like you would physical health. When we speak openly, we reduce fear and normalize seeking help. - Educate Yourself and Others
Learn the facts about mental illnesses. Knowledge replaces fear with understanding, and myths with truth. - Watch Your Language
Avoid phrases like “crazy,” “mental,” or “psycho.” Use respectful, person-first language—like “a person living with depression.” - Be Compassionate
You never know what someone is going through. Listen without judgment and validate their experience. A little empathy goes a long way. - Support Mental Health Advocacy
Follow and uplift voices working to reduce stigma. Share posts, attend events, or support mental health organizations in your area.
Final Thought
“The only shame about mental illness is the stigma attached to it.” — Unknown
Mental health challenges are nothing to be ashamed of. We all struggle, and we all deserve support without judgment. By breaking the silence, we open the door for healing—not just for ourselves, but for others too.
Let’s speak up. Let’s stand up. Let’s end the stigma together!
By Michael Adjei
