Mental health stigma is a societal problem that has a significant negative impact on people with mental health conditions. The stigma can lead to reduced hope, lower self-esteem, increased symptoms, difficulties at work, and a lower likelihood of maintaining treatment plans. It can also lead to discrimination in the workplace, housing, healthcare, and more. The stigma is often rooted in negative stereotypes about mental illness that are reinforced in our culture and media. These stereotypes can be particularly harmful for marginalized groups, who may already face discrimination and prejudice. In The Housemaid’s case, mental health stigma further terrorized Nina; on top of the abuse she experienced, society was against her, too.

To truly break down the Mental Health stigma, it has to be addressed at multiple levels. While talking about mental health is a great starting place, more will be needed to truly better the lives of those with mental health conditions.

Read more at the article, “If We Want to End Mental Health Stigma, It’ll Take More Than Talking” by Sam Dyland Finch.