Discussion Post: The Stigma of Mental Illness
Mental health stigma is noted as a barrier to treatment in many individuals with mental illness. Stigma can lead to a delay in seeking help and poor adherence to treatment out of fear of how individuals with mental illness may be viewed. Parker and Aggleton (2003) note that "Stigma marks the boundaries a society creates between "normal" and "outsiders", between "us" and "them" (Heijnders & Van Der Meij, 2006, p. 353).
Watch the 10-minute Ted Talk below on mental health and stigma and answer each of these questions related to mental health and stigma.
YouTube Video: "Breaking the Stigma and Shame of Mental Illness | Kitty Westin | TEDxFargo"
• How can health care providers decrease the stigma of mental illness?
• How does stigma affect the revolving door seen in the mental health care system?
• Do you believe mental health stigma has shaped any of the concerns nursing students may have about their clinical experience?
The response must include a reference list. Using one-inch margins, double-space, Times New Roman 12 pnt font and APA style of writing and citations.
Referernce
• Heijnders, M., & Van Der Meij, S. (2006). The fight against stigma: An overview of stigma-reduction strategies and interventions.
• Psychology, Health, and Medicine, 11(3), 353-363. DOI 10.1080/13548500600595327.