From Misconceptions to Understanding: Addressing Mental Health Stigma

 

Understanding the Impact of Stigma on Mental Health

When I was little, I watched a movie that had a "bipolar patient". His disorder caused him to have a good and a bad side. The good side was the side everyone knew while the bad side was the side that was the killer. I then had a preformed notion that bipolar disorder was characterized by having two sides - a dangerous side and a good side. It was years later that I bothered to fact-check for myself. This was good because I learned that bipolar disorder really wasn't like that. What it meant was just that individuals were subject to uncontrollable mood changes (mania and depression), to put it simply.

I present this story to you because there is a problem with the way the media and society have presented mental health to us. This misinformation makes us unknowingly reject help when affected or refuse to help those who struggle.

What is Stigma?

A stigma is a negative attitude or idea about a mental, physical, or social feature of a person or group of people that implies social disapproval. The American Psychological Association defines stigma as a major concern because it can lead to poor treatment of groups of people, impaired mental and physical health of those groups, and other negative effects such as discrimination, shame, and isolation. Unfortunately, people with mental illness often stigmatize themselves, known as self-stigma. Other types of stigma include structural and social stigma. Stigma can hinder trust and effective relationships between healthcare providers and patients, essential for proper care. It also leads to underfunding and neglect of mental health services in society.

The Effects of Stigma

Stigma can prevent individuals from seeking the help they need. Here are some statistics that highlight the impact:

• According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly two-thirds of people with a known mental disorder never seek help from a health professional.

• The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) reports that the average delay between the onset of mental illness symptoms and treatment is 11 years. That means if someone begins experiencing major depression at 14, they are unlikely to receive help until age 25. This is too long considering that physical conditions get treated early because they are considered as a “normal thing” in society.

• A study by Ahad et al. (2023) revealed that stigma causes delays in seeking treatment, worsens health outcomes, and reduces the quality of life for individuals with mental health issues.

How do you fit into the picture? What difference can you make to stop stigmatization? You can become aware and informed and educate those around you. Your increased awareness also makes you better equipped to help and support those around you or even help yourself if you are a mental health warrior right now. This is why I have highlighted 20 common myths below. More will be discussed in the next post.

Common Myths

Many mental health myths contribute to stigma and misunderstanding. Here are some common ones, along with the truth to help dispel these misconceptions:

1. Myth: Mental health problems are rare. 

Truth: Mental health issues are quite common. According to the World Health Organization, 1 in 4 people will be affected by mental or neurological disorders at some point in their lives.

2. Myth: People with mental health conditions are violent or dangerous. 

Truth: Most people with mental health conditions are not violent. In fact, they are more likely to be victims of violence than perpetrators.

3. Myth: Mental health issues are a sign of weakness. 

Truth: Mental health conditions are not a result of personal weakness or lack of character. They are medical conditions that can affect anyone, regardless of their strength or resilience.

4. Myth: Children don't experience mental health problems. 

Truth: Children can and do experience mental health issues. Conditions such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD can affect children and adolescents.

5. Myth: People with mental health conditions cannot recover. 

Truth: With the right treatment and support, many people with mental health conditions can and do recover. Recovery is a process, and many individuals lead fulfilling lives.

6. Myth: Therapy and self-help are a waste of time. 

Truth: Therapy and self-help strategies can be very effective for many people. They can provide tools and support to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

7. Myth: Mental health issues are not real medical conditions. 

Truth: Mental health conditions are real and can have a significant impact on a person's life. They are recognized by medical professionals and can be diagnosed and treated.

8. Myth: You can just "snap out of" a mental health condition. 

Truth: Mental health conditions are not something people can simply "snap out of." They often require professional treatment and support, just like physical health conditions.

9. Myth: People with mental health conditions can't work. 

Truth: Many people with mental health conditions are able to work and excel in their careers. With appropriate accommodations and support, they can be productive and successful.

10. Myth: Mental health issues are caused by bad parenting. 

Truth: While family environment can influence mental health, mental health conditions are caused by a complex interplay of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors.

11. Myth: Mental illness is a punishment from God. 

Truth: James 1:17 says, "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change."

12. Myth: Mental illness is contagious. 

Truth: Mental health conditions are not contagious. They cannot be spread from person to person through contact or proximity. While there is a genetic component to them, they are not contagious.

13. Myth: Depression is just sadness and can be overcome by positive thinking. 

Truth: Depression is a serious medical condition involving persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities. It often requires professional treatment, including therapy and medication.

14. Myth: Anxiety disorders are not real; they are just an excuse to avoid stressful situations. 

Truth: Anxiety disorders are real and can be debilitating. They involve excessive fear or worry and can interfere with daily activities. Treatment often includes therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.

15. Myth: People with schizophrenia have multiple personalities. 

Truth: Schizophrenia is a severe mental disorder characterized by distorted thinking, perceptions, and behaviors. It does not involve multiple personalities. Symptoms can include hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking.

16. Myth: Bipolar disorder is just mood swings and is not a serious condition. 

Truth: Bipolar disorder involves extreme mood swings, including manic (high) and depressive (low) episodes. It is a serious condition that can significantly impact a person's life and requires medical treatment.

17. Myth: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is just about being overly clean or organized. 

Truth: OCD involves unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that a person feels compelled to perform. It is not just about cleanliness or organization and can be very distressing.

18. Myth: Panic attacks can be fatal. 

Truth: Panic attacks are extremely distressing and can cause symptoms like a racing heartbeat and shortness of breath, but they are not fatal. However, they can feel very intense and frightening.

19. Myth: Only people without friends need therapists. 

Truth: Therapy provides professional support that friends and family may not be equipped to offer. It is beneficial for anyone needing help with mental health issues, regardless of their social support network.

20. Myth: Mental health problems are permanent. 

Truth: Many people with mental health conditions can and do recover with appropriate treatment and support. Recovery is a process, and many individuals can manage their symptoms effectively. When someone is cured of an illness, it means it’s gone forever. However, some illnesses, like diabetes, can’t be cured and last a lifetime. With proper medication and lifestyle changes, people with diabetes can still live long, healthy lives. Similarly, mental illnesses have no cure, but effective treatments are available. With these treatments, individuals with mental illnesses can recover and lead long, healthy lives.

Positive Language Matters

The language we use when talking about mental health and people affected by it plays a significant role in either perpetuating stigma or fostering understanding and acceptance. Avoid negative or judgmental language, such as body-shaming comments like "you are fat" or labelings like "she is crazy." Instead, use positive and supportive language that respects and acknowledges the individual's experience.

How Can We Combat Stigma?

1. Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about mental health conditions from reputable sources and share this information with others to dispel myths and stereotypes.

2. Support and Encourage: Offer support to those who may be struggling with mental health issues. Encourage them to seek professional help and be there for them without judgment.

3. Advocate for Positive Language: Promote the use of respectful and non-judgmental language when discussing mental health. Correct others when you hear stigmatizing language.

4. Challenge Media Misrepresentation: Speak out against inaccurate portrayals of mental health in media. Support media that provides accurate and compassionate representations. 

I recently watched a Nigerian movie that focused on Adverse Childhood Experiences and their aftermath, and it was clear that the creators had conducted thorough research and aimed to raise awareness. I also came across a Nigerian series that beautifully portrayed Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in children, highlighting the importance of having counselors in primary and secondary schools. These examples show that Nigeria, along with the rest of the world, is making progress in mental health awareness due to the efforts of many. You too can contribute by applying what you've learned from this blog and sharing it with others.

Conclusion

Stigma is a significant barrier to mental health care that we must address collectively. By educating ourselves, supporting others, advocating for positive language, and challenging media misrepresentation, we can create a more understanding and supportive society for everyone affected by mental health conditions.

References

Ahad, A. A., Sanchez-Gonzalez, M., & Junquera, P. (2023). Understanding and Addressing Mental Health Stigma across Cultures for Improving Psychiatric Care: a Narrative Review. Cureus, 15(5). https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.39549

Cultural Context and Misconceptions About Mental Health in Nigeria. (2024). Nigerian Bulletin. https://nigerianbulletin.com/ams/cultural-context-and-misconceptions-about-mental-health-in-nigeria.2232/

Gillison, D. (2022). Early Intervention Can Save Lives. NAMI. https://www.nami.org/from-the-ceo/early-intervention-can-save-lives/

Jamison, K. R. (2006). The many stigmas of mental illness. The Lancet, 367(9509), 533–534. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0140-6736(06)68187-7

Kumar, R. (2024). Only people without friends need therapists. Medanta - the Medicity. https://www.medanta.org/patient-education-blog/only-people-without-friends-need-therapists

Labinjo, T., Serrant, L., Ashmore, R., & Turner, J. (2020). Perceptions, attitudes and cultural understandings of mental health in Nigeria: a scoping review of published literature. Mental Health, Religion and Culture, 23(7), 606–624. https://eprints.whiterose.ac.uk/187620/

Mental_Health_Myths_Resource_2023.pdf (mentalhealth.org.uk) Mental Health America. (2024). Is mental illness curable? MHA Screening. https://screening.mhanational.org/content/mental-illness-curable/

Naija, C. (2023). Psychiatry and the Stigma of Mental Illness in Nigeria. Professions in Nigeria. https://professions.ng/stigma-of-mental-illness-in-nigeria/

Newman, T. (2020). 11 myths about mental health. Www.medicalnewstoday.com. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/medical-myths-mental-health-misconceptions#7.-Addiction-is-a-lack-of-willpower

SAMHSA. (2023). Mental Health Myths and Facts. Www.samhsa.gov; SAMHSA. https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/myths-and-facts

Sartorius, N. (2007). Stigma and mental health. The Lancet, 370(9590), 810–811. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0140-6736(07)61245-8

UNICEF. (2024). Busted: 7 myths about mental health. Www.unicef.org; UNICEF. https://www.unicef.org/parenting/health/busted-7-myths-about-mental-health

Villines, Z. (2020). Can you die from a panic attack? Research and what to do. Www.medicalnewstoday.com. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/can-you-die-from-a-panic-attack#long-term-health

World Health Organization. (2001). The World Health Report 2001: Mental Disorders affect one in four people. Www.who.int; WHO. https://www.who.int/news/item/28-09-2001-the-world-health-report-2001-mental-disorders-affect-one-in-four-people

The Power of Micro-Moments

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's often the small, seemingly insignificant moments that can make the most profound impact. These "micro-moments" shape our experiences and influence our paths in unexpected ways. I am thrilled to introduce a special guest writer for this blog post, Abasimfon, a dear friend whose wisdom and insight never cease to amaze me. She has graciously agreed to share her perspective on the power of micro-moments. Her ability to capture the essence of life's subtleties is unparalleled, and I am confident her words will resonate deeply with you, as they always do with me. Please join me in welcoming her unique voice and perspective by reading till the end.

Introduction

In pursuit of life’s grandiose episodes, the human mind tends to gloss over seemingly minute ones, overlooking the compounding impact of these micro-moments.

Recently, I was on the verge of a confrontational conversation; the tension was almost unbearable. At the nick of time, my roommate walked in, wearing the widest smile, and handed me a gift. Ease followed by a sudden burst of energy surged down my spine. Though I love egg rolls, neither the food nor the money mattered. The thoughtfulness and timeliness necessitated the reviving effect. She was astonished by the numerous ‘thank yous’. While it was nothing significant to her, to me, it meant the world.

We have been programmed to constantly strive for the next “big thing.” This ambition has its perks but deprives us of the rich experiences found in our everyday individual processes.

Being at the giving end does not strip one of the rejuvenation either. There’s an unmatched sense of fulfillment that comes with uplifting others. The Bible iterates: He who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.

The essence of micro-moments can also be non-transactional. Our joys and sorrows are chosen long before they’re experienced. The decisions made and actions taken in seconds define our days and span across weeks into months. Take a pause here and reflect on how you’ve spent the last hour.

James Clear, in his book ‘Atomic Habits,’ profoundly states that we do not rise to the level of our goals but fall to the level of our systems. This implies that the proper utilization of micro-moments will be a mirage without setting structures.

Here are some tips I believe will be found helpful:

For Yourself 

1. Awareness: This precedes effective utilization.

2. Health and Well-being: Short physical exercises, healthy meal choices, and brief periods of meditation enhance productivity.

3. Gratitude Practice: Appreciate every progress made, none is too little. Savor moments, though short-lived. Gratitude jars are not cliché. You probably are not lagging behind; the practice of gratitude has just not been incorporated.

4. Micro-learning: A quick glance at useful information can be life-changing. You do not need hours to learn. The time taken to learn a new word, listen to a podcast segment, or read a blog post ranges from seconds to minutes, yet it instigates the evolution of the mind.

In recent blog posts, the art of self-care has been discussed extensively.

For Others:

1. Active Listening: Give full attention to others, even if brief. They’ll feel heard and valued.

2. Express Appreciation: Appreciate your loved ones for carrying out their roles with candor. Greet strangers with an attuned smile; compliments can reverse bad days too.

3. Check-ins: A quick visit to a friend’s room, text messages, or a short call fosters love and unity.

Conclusion

In this fast-paced world, random acts of kindness are often viewed as time-wasters. The objective of this blog post would be futile if this outlook remains unchanged. However, this does not incite replacing crucial moments with trivial ones. Rather, it calls for conscious efforts to uplift others, which may often demand inconvenience.

Leveraging micro-moments allows us to maximize daily experiences, promote positive habits, and enhance our overall quality of life. Recognize the value of each of the 31,536,600 seconds and 526,600 minutes in a year, and strive to ensure that every moment is purposeful. Remember, it does not have to be extravagant.

References:

https://bible.com/bible/114/pro.11.25.NKJV

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/flourish-and-thrive/201907/5-ways-add-more-moments-social-connection-your-life?amp

https://echoesofsilencebyt.blogspot.com/2024/06/the-art-of-self-care.html