Guest post by Ms Rebecca Bugeja
Stigma stems from the Greek word for mark or brand. In today鈥檚 world, this mark or stigma can elicit a variety of reactions from the public about the concerned subject or trait, the most common of which is disapproval. This is linked with discrimination because once stigma happens, discrimination, or the reactions and behaviour of others towards the stigmatized person, often follows [,].
In the context of mental health, as with other stigmatized and sensitive subjects, discrimination can be split into overt and covert discrimination. An example of overt discrimination is when a person uses hurtful terms towards a person living with mental illness. The lesser-known term of the pair, covert discrimination, is a subtle form of segregating people who are mentally fit from those who may need help in this regard. Such discrimination can lead to mentally ill individuals missing out on opportunities.
When a mental healthcare professional makes a diagnosis of a mental illness, everyone close to the patient reacts to such an event. However, certain actions linked to this news e.g., becoming overprotective of the individual, does not help the individual onto the path towards mental stability or recovery from the condition [].
On a broader level, modern-day routines and regulations may put people with mental illness at a disadvantage. These regulations made with no regard for exceptions towards those at a disadvantage e.g., those suffering from mental illness, find it harder to keep their jobs and maintain their normal routines.
If you have witnessed such injustices happening, you can alleviate some of the hurt which such discriminatory behaviour causes. Firstly, educate yourself about mental illness to enhance your knowledge on the topic. That way, you can pass on this crucial information to others. Aside from speaking to others about mental health, you can express your thoughts to a wider audience via social media. When speaking to people who are going through mental illness themselves, make sure you are aware of the language you are using. This shows sensitivity and compassion towards the person [].
