Reducing stigma
What does 'stigma' mean in the context of emotional health and well-being? It means being avoided, ignored, talked about, laughed at or bullied because of a mental health problem.
Like all prejudice, stigma is based on fear, and a lack of knowledge. Myths about mental health problems can discourage people from getting help early. Such myths can also encourage stigma against people with mental health problems.
Stigmatising language, such as 'psycho', 'loony', 'nutter', is just as unacceptable as racist, sexist or homophobic language. Bullying or harassing someone because of mental ill health is just as damaging as any other kind of bullying and it should be challenged in the same way.
Families can help
It is important that parents, carers and other family members actively help to reinforce any work and learning that reduces stigma – both at school and out of school.
One of the most effective ways of fighting stigma is to make sure that you have good quality information, keep an open mind and talk about the issues. Keeping things hidden can give stigma a home.
Useful links
Just Like Me
A campaign aimed at young people aged between 12 and 18 years, designed to help tackle the stigma and discrimination that can occur when people have mental health problems. This site provides useful information about mental health and and links to sources of support. The campaign also makes available cartoon-style leaflets and posters that can be used to support its message: these can be downloaded from the 'Just Like Me' Resources page.
See Me
The See Me campaign challenges the stigma and discrimination surrounding mental ill health in Scotland; the website contains facts, personal stories and information on support groups around the country.
