More than half of persons with mental illness don't get any help. People frequently postpone or delay going to therapy because they are worried about their job or because they

are afraid of being treated unfairly. This is because stigma, prejudice, and discrimination against people with mental illnesses, depression, stress, and anxiety continue to be serious problems.

No matter how overt or covert, stigma, prejudice, and discrimination are all potentially detrimental when they are directed at people who have mental illnesses. It can be beneficial to comprehend the manifestations of stigma and discrimination towards those who experience mental illness and how to address and put a stop to them.

Stigma is when someone views you badly because of a distinguishing characteristic or personal trait that is seen to be or actually is a disadvantage (a negative stereotype). Unfortunately, there are many negative beliefs and attitudes toward those who suffer from mental illnesses.

Discrimination may result from stigma. Discrimination can be overt and direct, such when someone makes fun of your therapy or mental health. For instance, it could be inadvertent or covert when someone avoids you because they believe you might be violent, unstable, or otherwise dangerous as a result of your mental illness. You might even judge yourself.

Among the negative consequences of stigma are:

• Resistance to seeking assistance or therapy
• Lack of understanding from friends, family, workplace, or other people
• Less possibility for employment, education, or socializing, or difficulty finding housing
• Harassment, physical abuse, or bullying
• Your mental illness treatment is not fully covered by your health insurance
• The conviction that you can't change your circumstances or that you'll never be successful at certain challenges

Discrimination and stigma decrease the likelihood of getting therapy, and symptoms could get worse as a result. The recovery of people with major mental illnesses is negatively impacted by self-stigma, according to a new comprehensive review of the research. Various effects include:

• Decreased hope
• Decreased self-esteem
• Elevated mental health symptoms
• Issues with social interactions
• Decreased likelihood of completing treatment
• Extra challenges at work

How to cope with stigma & discrimination?

Knowing or interacting with someone who has a mental illness is one of the best ways to reduce stigma, according to research. By speaking up and sharing their experiences, people might actually make a difference. Knowing someone who has a mental illness makes it feel more relatable and empathetic rather than as terrifying.

Obtain mental health expert assistance: You could be reluctant to admit that you require treatment. Do not put off seeking assistance if you are worried about receiving a mental condition diagnosis. By determining the underlying reason and minimizing symptoms that interfere with your personal and professional life, treatment can offer relief. You must consult the best online Clinical Psychologist, at India’s no 1 mental health Online Counselling Platform for overcoming challenges of mental health.

Don't let stigma make you feel humiliated or insecure because stigma comes from many different places. You might think that you are weak or that you should be able to handle your situation on your own, which is a mistake. By attending counseling, and taking Online Therapy learn more about your disease, and establish connections with other people who are also dealing with mental illness. You can increase your self-esteem and get rid of negative self-judgment. 

Stay away from being alone: You could be hesitant to admit that you have a mental illness. If your family, friends, clergy, or other community members are aware of your mental illness, they can help you. Ask for the understanding, help, and compassion you need from individuals you can trust.

Do not link your condition with yourself: No, you are not the illness. So instead of saying "I am bipolar," say "I have bipolar disorder." Instead of saying "I am a schizophrenic," say "I have schizophrenia."

Inquire about help at your school: Find out what strategies and initiatives can be useful if you or your child has a mental illness that affects their ability to study. Because it is against the law to discriminate against students because of mental disease, teachers at all levels—primary, secondary, and college—must make every effort to make adjustments for these kids. For advice on the finest methods and resources, consult academics, managers, or teachers. A teacher's ignorance of a student's impairment may result in prejudice, obstacles to learning, and subpar grades.

Speak out against stigma: Consider expressing your opinions online, via letters to the editor, or at meetings. It can encourage people going through comparable problems and spread knowledge about mental illness.

What we can all do to eliminate the stigma attached to mental illness is suggested by NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness:

• Talk openly
• Educate yourself and others
• Be conscious of language
• Encourage equality
• Show compassion
• Be honest about treatment
• Let the media know
• Choose empowerment over shame

The majority of the time, other people’s opinions are not supported by the facts but rather stem from a lack of comprehension. It can make a great difference to learn to accept your illness and identify what you need to do to treat it. Become aware, Seek assistance, take Online Counselling and contribute to the education of others.