The stigma of mental health disorders cause a great deal of strain on the lives of individuals who suffer from them. Despite the issue of having to live with and manage these conditions, individuals also face the burden of being judged by society based on a biological trait in which they have no control over. Many people associate mental illness, with weakness or negative actions. In our society, violence and danger seems to consume our thoughts when we think of a person with a mental health disorder. This causes victims to be angry, ashamed and self concious. For these reasons, individual's with mental health issues may choose not to seek treatment (MayoClinic, 2009).
In order to reduce the stigma and shame that surrounds mental illness, society must begin to respect those individuals who suffer from these conditions. Instead of teasing and living in fear around these individuals, we must take the time to become educated on their condition. There are many misconceptions about individuals with mental health issues; the key is to become educated and embrace these individuals as productive members of society.
Reference:
MayoClinic. (2009). Mental health: Overcoming the stigma of mental illness. Retrieved from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/mental-health/MH00076
I think that education is key as well. If people are not informed on the disorder then they are not going to be willing to let others help them treat it. That also goes for people who may not have a mental illness but they may know someone who does. They need to be educated too, so they can help that person in need. People can be selfish and so focused on themselves that they don't feel it's necessary to reach out and help someone that may just need a friend or someone to talk to. Depression and mental disorders are a lot more common than we think.
ReplyDelete-Sarah Petersen
Hi, I know what you mean I feel the same way and I really wish people can just stop and think about it what they say something of look at people is really wrong and god don’t want as to be like that or do that to one another. I just pray for them and thank god for what I have and be thankful. Everyone is so warred about how they look like people need to think about their health and if there health or your baby is health and what else can you ask for.
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