The Stigma Around Therapy: Breaking the Silence

Leave a comment

By Jaslyn Bush | UAB Community Health & Human Services Program (Student)

Photo by Antoni Shkraba Studio on Pexels.com

In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of mental health issues and the importance of seeking therapy. However, despite progress in raising awareness, a significant stigma still surrounds mental health therapy, preventing many individuals from seeking the help they need.

The stigma around therapy often stems from societal misconceptions and stereotypes. Many people still believe that seeking mental health therapy is a sign of weakness or that it is only for those with severe mental illnesses (Corrigan, 2004). This perception is far from the truth. Therapy can be a valuable tool for anyone facing life’s challenges, whether they are dealing with stress, relationship issues, or personal growth.

The Impact of Stigma
Stigma can prevent individuals from seeking help, leading to untreated mental health issues that can worsen over time (Vogel, Wade, & Haake, 2006). Additionally, the fear of being judged or misunderstood can cause individuals to suffer in silence, further exacerbating their struggles. According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA), there are 3 kinds of stigma:

Public Stigma: This stigma can be described as negative and inaccurate attitudes about a mental illness from the public (Singhal, 2024). There is a fear that one may experience discrimination i employment, housing, health care, etc. due to one being diagnosed with a mental illness.

Self-Stigma: This includes negative attitudes, including internalized shame of their condition. Self-stigma can lead to lower self-esteem issues and reduce self-confidence.

Structural Stigma: Involves policies of government and private organizations that intentionally or unintentionally limit opportunities for people for people with mental illness (Singhal, 2024). If the federal government or state and local municipalities reduce funding for mental health services and programs, then individuals in need of care will not have less opportunity to receive the care and support they need.

Breaking the Silence
To combat the stigma around therapy, professionals in health and human services must promote open and honest conversations about mental health. Education is key; providing accurate information about the benefits of therapy and debunking common myths, in order to change societal attitudes (Corrigan & Watson, 2002). Additionally, sharing personal stories and experiences can help normalize therapy and encourage others to seek help.

The stigma around therapy is a significant barrier to mental health care. By understanding its roots, recognizing its impact, and taking steps to promote open conversations, we can work towards a society where seeking therapy is thought of as a sign of strength and self-care. If you or someone you know has experienced challenges with mental and emotional health, consider sharing your thoughts and perspectives in the comments below and engage with us on Facebook at the Wilkinson Wellness Lab.

References

Corrigan, P. W. (2004). How stigma interferes with mental health care. American Psychologist, 59(7), 614-625. 

Corrigan, P. W., & Watson, A. C. (2002). Understanding the impact of stigma on people with mental illness. World Psychiatry, 1(1), 16-20. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1489832/](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1489832/)

Vogel, D. L., Wade, N. G., & Haake, S. (2006). Measuring the self-stigma associated with seeking psychological help. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 53(3), 325-337. [

Kalkbrenner, M. T., & Esparza, S. (2022). Barriers to seeking counseling among a national sample of U.S. physicians: The revised fit, stigma, and value scale. The Professional Counselor, 15(2), 123-137.

Melnyk, B. M., Kelly, S. A., & Jacobson, D. (2020). Reducing stigma and promoting mental health in healthcare professionals: An integrative review. Journal of Nursing Management, 28(5), 1020-1030.

Singhal, N. (2024, March). Stigma, Prejudice and Discrimination Against People with Mental Illness. American Psychiatric Association. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/stigma-and-discrimination

Parents and schools can work together to improve adolescent mental health

Leave a comment

By Travia Martin | UAB Community Health & Human Services Student

Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.com

Although thought to be light and carefree, the adolescent years leading into adulthood are significant to the development of a child and their preparation into adulthood. From physical health, emotional health, mental health and other domains of wellness, these years are important as young people begin to take on adult like responsibilities. According to World Health Organization (n.d.), children ages 10-19 at some point may experience health issues related to the following poor hygiene, partaking in behaviors involving alcohol and drug use, unsafe sex, abuse, and teen pregnancy. While every area of health is important for the proper development of adolescents, mental health may be one of the categories often overlooked and underserved. For example, depression and anxiety have the most impact on this age group in relation to illness with suicide being the leading cause of death among those 15-19 (WHO, 2023). 1.1 million adolescents die each year, whether it be traffic accidents, violence, or self-inflicted harm.

School health programs should be championed and supported in middle and high schools to support adolescent development. Why? First, we should consider that in the U.S., fifty-six million students spend at least 6 hours a day at school, receiving social, physical, and intellectual development (CDC, 2021). Within your community, are you aware of the programs, activities, and group organizations that offer support to your middle and high school adolescence? Supplying mental health support and assistance within schools may elevate awareness, guidance and understanding of such complex health issues among adolescents. Additionally, social media plays a role in adolescent development, because young people see and do what they are taught or have learned, picked up through observational learning while constantly viewing social media on their electronic devices.

Whether you are a parent or an educator, there are several behaviors you can implement into your home, school, organization, etc. to help support and aid the development of adolescents and their mental health. Minor changes like spending more time engaging with young people through face-to-face conversation and allowing them to express their feelings mentally and emotionally, can aid positively to overall health and well-being (CDC, 2021). Removing teens and young adults from environments or locations that are toxic and filled with trauma to more peaceful and positive environments are also important. Supporting pro-social behaviors to express ones emotions such as art, writing, or even support groups involving peers of the same age is also important. Adolescent therapy and counseling are additional tools that can support the development of their mental health and create positive influence among their behaviors and actions (CDC, 2021).

What about you? Did you experience tough times during your adolescent years? What tips would you give to teenagers and young adults today? Leave a comment here or join the discussion at @WilkinsonWellnessLab on Facebook.

References:

Adolescent and young adult health. (n.d.). Www.who.int. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/adolescents-health-risks-and-solutions#:~:text=Depression%20and%20anxiety%20are%20among

CDC. (2021, April 23). Mental health of children and parents—A strong connection. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/childrensmentalhealth/features/mental-health-children-and-parents.html

COVID-19 Pandemic Associated with Worse Mental Health and Accelerated Brain Development in Adolescents. (2023, January 26). National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). https://www.nimh.nih.gov/news/science-news/2023/covid-19-pandemic-associated-with-worse-mental-health-and-accelerated-brain-development-in-adolescents#:~:text=The%20two%20groups%20differed%20significantly

National Library of Medicine. (2022). CHILD AND ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH. In http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (US). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK587174/

Why schools? | adolescent and school health | CDC. (2021, June 8). https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/about/why_schools.htm