Mental health stigma comes in many forms. Consider three common types of stigma and how they might impact you.
Public stigma
This occurs when the surrounding culture or environment discriminates against or devalues a person with mental illness. This might result in hurtful stereotypes perpetuated in the culture that can influence how a person is treated by an employer, a teacher, a healthcare practitioner, a landlord, etc.
Systemic stigma
Systemic stigma occurs on a legal and policy level. For example, certain policies or regulations in schools, hospitals, churches, or other institutions might make it difficult for a person with a mental health disorder to access the type of care and resources they need.
Self stigma
Self stigma is an internalized, negative view of oneself. It creates a sense of shame in the way you feel about yourself and your mental health. It often impacts self-esteem and may lead to doubts about being able to recover.