What is Stigma?
STIGMA is a collection of negative attitudes, beliefs, behaviors, and structures that generate negative attitudes about people with a condition. Stigma has historically been defined as “a mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person.”
Stigma is one of the top barriers to accessing substance use and mental health treatment – it stops people from seeking help by negatively affecting the way individuals see themselves and their condition and how they are treated by others. Stigma marks substance use or mental health issues as shameful and makes people want to hide their conditions. It may also cause helpers and policymakers to exclude individuals from treatment and support.
People who experience stigma are less likely to seek treatment. We are ALL part of the solution.
EXAMPLES OF STIGMA
- Hurtful words and labels such as “junkie,” “addict,” “crazy,” or “insane.”
- Assuming someone is “weak” or lacks willpower because they have a mental health condition or substance use disorder.
- Receiving lower quality of care in the healthcare system.
- Being profiled by law enforcement.
- Insurance barriers for mental health or substance use services.
TYPES OF STIGMA
PUBLIC OR SOCIETAL STIGMA is the public’s reaction to individuals with a stigmatizing condition such as substance use disorders or other behavioral health issues.
PERSONAL OR SELF STIGMA is the internalization of publicly stigmatized beliefs. Self stigma can result in shame, guilt, reduced sense of hope, social withdrawal and isolation, and a decrease in adherence to treatment.
COURTESY STIGMA is directed toward family and friends of those with a stigmatized condition. Courtesy stigma can isolate family members, lead family members to feel guilty, create a sense of shame, and can make the family member less likely to encourage treatment.
STRUCTURAL STIGMA includes laws, policies, and procedures that limit the opportunities of people with substance use disorder or other behavioral health issues. Structural stigma can be found in businesses, organizations, the courts, government, school systems, and social services.