Unravelling Inequity: Exploring the Mental Health Stigma Faced by Black people. №2
Stigmatisation due to mental illness is especially pervasive in black and other minority populations. Studies demonstrate that members of minority groups are less likely to seek care for mental health issues due to stigma and discrimination. One manifestation of the stigma surrounding mental health issues is the mistreatment of those who are diagnosed with or suspected of having one.
People who may benefit from mental health services may be discouraged from seeking treatment due to the fear of being stigmatised and treated unjustly. Furthermore, when members of minority groups are provided with mental health services, they may be less likely to receive adequate treatment because providers may view them through a lens of cultural and racial bias.
In the first of this blog series of three parts, we defined mental health stigma and examined the dismal statistics that impact minority populations in the United Kingdom. In this piece, I’ll go through the problem of mental health stigma and discrimination, as well as some ways to combat it.
Mental Health Stigma and Discrimination
The discrimination and stigma surrounding mental health issues are inextricably linked. Discrimination is the unfair treatment of someone or a group because of their colour, gender, sexual orientation, or other characteristics. On the other hand, stigma refers to a prejudicial opinion of someone because of their personal traits.
Mental health stigma and discrimination are inextricably linked. Discrimination is defined as the unjust or unfair treatment of an individual or group on the basis of their race, gender, sexual orientation, or other traits. In contrast, stigma is an unfavourable opinion or view of someone based on their characteristics.
Discrimination can manifest itself in a variety of ways, including verbal abuse, physical assault, and exclusion. It may also result in unequal access to resources like healthcare and education. Both discrimination and stigma can have significant consequences for individuals and communities. Because of discrimination, people may feel uncomfortable or unsupported in their communities, which can contribute to poor mental health and mental illness.
Reducing the Stigma Associated with Mental Health
Reducing mental health stigma is a complex issue that requires a multi-pronged approach. Here are a few strategies for reducing mental health stigma:
- Educate yourself and others about mental health through books, online resources, or talking with health professionals.
- Normalise conversations about mental health. Create a safe and supportive environment for discussions around mental health issues.
- Through media campaigns, public speaking, or social media, you can fight against negative ideas and beliefs about mental health.
- Advocate for policies that reduce mental health stigma. Consider lobbying for better access to mental health services or advocating for more funding for mental health programmes.
- Support organisations that work to reduce mental health stigma. Consider donating to mental health-focused charities or volunteering with mental health organisations.
Final Thoughts
Minority groups do not need to experience the harmful psychological repercussions of discrimination and stigma. It is possible to build a community where everyone feels like they belong and are valued.
Here are just a few simple ways for us to help: We can make a difference in the lives of those who struggle with mental health issues by reaching out to them, donating to organisations whose mission it is to improve mental health, and volunteering with organisations whose mission it is to eliminate the stigma associated with mental illness and foster healthy environments for those who suffer from it.
Visit www.bempongtalkingtherapy.com to learn more about mental health for Black people and other ethnic minority groups.
