Stigma - A Barrier to Our Wellbeing

A strong person also faces more trials in life! ! !

Do people around you speak openly about mental health issues? Or have you spoken about it with friends, family members, or colleagues without any fear? We usually find it less difficult to express physical complaints, so why do we feel fear when talking about mental problems and difficulties? And why, after all, are we afraid of mental health problems?

Mental health problems are often perceived by a person as a personal weakness or flaw. Because of this, one often "justifies" oneself by insisting that they are a strong person and therefore have not "suffered" or will not "suffer" from any kind of mental health problem. In reality, personal strength is defined by our readiness to cope with various difficulties and challenges.

As for a mental health problem, it is a health disorder, and fighting it makes us stronger.

A step correctly taken to overcome stigma not only strengthens us, but also serves as a good example and opportunity for other people.

Stigma not only creates a barrier to starting treatment, but often also becomes a reason for prematurely stopping treatment, which ultimately has a negative effect on treatment outcomes.

Three main types of stigma

Public stigma

Refers to negative stereotypes and prejudices prevalent in society toward people with mental health problems. Stigma established in society may lead to various forms of discrimination (e.g., discrimination in the fields of employment and education).

Self-stigma

Arises when individuals with mental health conditions begin to believe the negative beliefs held about them in society. Self-stigma can cause feelings of shame, guilt, and lowered self-esteem. All of this, in turn, ultimately leads to a decline in quality of life. As a result, self-stigma may prevent individuals from seeking help or continuing treatment.

Institutional stigma

Refers to policies and practices existing within social and public institutions that discriminate against people with mental health problems. It systematically places them at a disadvantage, hinders them, and restricts them.

Destigmatization

Around the world, various campaigns are actively underway to reduce the stigma of mental health.

As a result, the number of people who feel free to seek help from mental health specialists has increased significantly.

Destigmatization is a core mission of our clinic. This is reflected in every aspect of our work..

For example: the clinic's visual environment, comfort, family-like atmosphere, and the stigma-free attitude of our staff and specialists.

It is important to remember that freeing oneself from stigma is the first step on the path to recovery!