Facts:

Did you know?

An estimated 44 million Americans experience a mental disorder in any given year. Stigma is about disrespect and using negative labels to identify a person living with mental illness. People would rather tell employers that they served time in jail for a petty crime than admit they were in a psychiatric hospital. Stigma is a barrier between an individual seeking help and being open about their mental illness.

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Overcoming stigma
Relieving victims of stigma by raising awareness.
Valerie Griffith Western Washington University HSP 315

Stigma is a form of branding and shaming. Stigma is also another form of discrimination. The stigma around mental illness is real and painful to those who experience is. It is a damaging act.

Before you label people, look at their Contents

Valerie Griffith Stigma around mental health

Negative effects from stigma: Discourages people from getting help Results in prejudice and discrimination Keeps people from getting good jobs and advancing in the workplace Leads to fear and mistrust of others

Learning can heal.

Check out these websites for more information:

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Go out into your community and learn OTHERWISE DELETE BOX about stigma towards mental health. There are lots of organizations that can give you information about different mental illnesses. Learn about the Americans with Disabilities Act and obey it accordingly. Make sure what you read and watch is being responsible and held accountable for encouraging stigma.

Dont forget
Treat all people with dignity and respect. People with mental illness may be your neighbors or other acquaintances. Think about the persons feelings. Consider using labels that are more appropriate, such as, he has a mental illness, not, he is bipolar.

www.power2u.org www.nmha.org www.nimh.nih.gov www.mentalhealth. samhsa.gov www.nami.org