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What is
Stigma?
Stigma is commonly defined
as the use of stereotypes and labels when defining someone. 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. The stigma surrounding
these misunderstandings can limit opportunities, it can stand in the
way of a new job, it can increase feelings of loneliness, and it can
cause many other unfortunate outcomes. According to the Surgeon
General, the stigma associated with
mental illness "is manifested by bias, distrust, stereotyping, fear,
embarrassment, anger, and avoidance.
The educational information on this web site encourages the use of
positive images to refer to people with mental illness and
underscores the reality that mental illness can be successfully
treated.
Do you know that an estimated 44 million Americans
experience a mental disorder in any given year?
Do you know that stigma is not a matter of using the wrong word or
action?
Do you know that stigma is about disrespect and using negative
labels to identify a person living with mental illness?
Do you know that stigma is a barrier that discourages individuals
and their families from seeking help?
Do you know that many people would rather tell employers they
committed a petty crime and served time in jail, than admit to being
in a psychiatric hospital?
Do you know that stigma can result in inadequate insurance coverage
for mental health services?
Do you know that stigma leads to fear, mistrust, and violence
against people living with mental illness and their families?
Do you know that stigma can cause families and friends to turn their
backs on people with mental illness?
Do you know that stigma can prevent people from getting access to
needed mental health services?
DO'S:
Do use respectful language
Do emphasize abilities, not limitations.
Do tell someone if they express a stigmatizing
attitude.
DON'TS:
Don't portray successful persons with disabilities
as super human.
Don't use generic labels such as retarded, or the
mentally ill.
Don't use terms
like crazy, lunatic, manic depressive, or slow functioning.
http://mentalhealth.samhsa.gov/publications/allpubs/OEL99-0004/default.asp |