There is a large amount of stigma associated with mental illness and mental disorders. Many people do not seek medical treatment, or are in denial about having a mental illness, because they don’t want to accept the fact that they may have one. These people may be worrying about what others think of them, or even how they think of themselves. Mental disorders are not usually diagnosed with lab tests and physical markings. These problems are arising in the brain and mind and can therefore not be seen like many physical disorders. This may be a reason for stigma. The illness cannot be seen, so maybe it’s not even real or maybe the person is faking it. These thoughts can arise from an illness that isn’t visible and potentially have the person with the disorder believing the doubts. This is a self-stigma and may result in the person not receiving the proper help they need. Many of us really care how others perceive us and care about what they think of us. If people start listening to those that say their illness is fake, they may start believing it and have negative thoughts towards themselves. It is important that mental illness is discussed and public knowledge for all. This will help end the stigma that mental illness isn’t real and allow those with mental illness to get the help they deserve and need.
Culture has a major impact on response to mental illness. Every culture has its own sets of beliefs, ways of life, and types of religion. Not only that, but each person in a culture has their own views and ways of living. Not every person in a specific culture acts and feels the same way. Depending on the culture, there can be different mental illnesses or names for these diagnoses that differ from your own. Some groups will seek treatment for physical aspects of their health before addressing the mental aspects. This may be due to limited resources, stigma, or the belief that the systems will not properly accommodate their cultural needs and beliefs. Some groups may even receive double stigma based on their race and mental illness. This may make it challenging to want to reach out for help, due to fear in how others will perceive them. Asian cultures have been known to deny mental illness or disguise it. If someone’s culture doesn’t believe in their illness, it isn’t very likely for them to receive medical care. Native Americans may treat mental illness different than other cultures based on their beliefs in herbal medicine and healing ceremonies. Those are just a few of the many cultural differences related to mental illness. If the culture you identify with believes in mental disorders and treating them, you are more likely to seek help. On the other hand, you are less likely to seek treatment if your culture has stigmas associated to mental illness, or if they simply don’t believe in them.
