Prejudices and misunderstandings
There are many prejudices and misunderstandings about mental health problems; some people think that people with mental health problems are ‘weird’ or ‘attention seeking’, but this just isn’t true.
'People with mental health problems may be treated differently because of these attitudes; this is called stigma.'
Brian (the brain)
Having judgmental attitudes toward a person with mental health difficulties can cause them to have strong feelings.
How does stigma affect young people?
Stigma can have a big impact in all areas of a young person’s life. How do you think stigma can make a person feel?
'Stigma can make people feel: scared, worried, alone, confused, different, afraid.'
Brian (the brain)
Research carried out by the Time to Change charity found the following:
- 60% of people they interviewed said that stigma and discrimination are as damaging or more damaging than the symptoms of their mental health problem.
- 35% of people said that stigma had made them give up on their hopes, dreams and ambitions.
- 27% said that stigma had made them want to give up on life.
What can I do?
'If you have a friend who is experiencing mental health difficulties, you don’t have to be a mental health expert to help and support them.'
Brian (the brain)
- Keep being their friend.
- Make them laugh.
- Ask them how they are feeling.
- Include them in activities.
- Listen to them if they are having a difficult time.
- Send them a supportive message or text.
- Don’t judge or be critical.