Stigma
Although one in three Canadians will experience a mental illness at some point in their lives, many
don’t seek out the treatment or support they need because of fear of stigmatization.
Stigma includes both a negative attitude and the physical act of discrimination that results from
the negative bias. Stigma means thinking less of a person because of their condition.
Stigma can make people feel unwanted and ashamed. It is often harder to deal with than the
illness itself.
Stigmatization of mental illness may interact with other forms of stigma related to social identities,
such as race, gender and sexuality. Stigma is especially difficult for people living with these conditions
because it can create barriers to accessing necessary social and structural supports. This can result in
further experiences of stigma (Jackson-Best & Edwards, 2018).

Addressing Stigma:
These are some ways to talk about mental illness, show your support and help those who are facing
mental health challenges seek help:

• Be kind: Small acts of kindness make a big difference.
• Educate yourself: Learn about and talk more about
   the signs of mental illness.
• Language matters: Pay attention to the words you
    use about mental health and illness.
• Listen and ask: Sometimes, it’s best to just listen.
• Talk about it: Start a dialogue and break the silence.

Stigma is…

• Stigma = negative attitudes (prejudice) + negative responses (discrimination)
• Stigma means thinking less of a person because of who they are
• Stigma can make a person feel unwanted and shamed and can prevent people from seeking help

Ways to stop stigma:

✓Treat everyone with respect

✓Be warm, caring and nonjudgmental

✓Challenge stigma when you see it

✓Be mindful of the language you use

✓Learn the facts about mental health and mental illness

✓Help raise awareness about mental health