Addressing the Stigma Surrounding Mental Illness

The problem is so pervasive in our society, the subject of mental illness is still somewhat taboo in many circles. This is still the "elephant in the room," a course for those who suffer from various forms and to their loved ones are reluctant to talk.

Positive steps have recently been taken in making the public more aware of the wide range of mental health problems that affect so many. However, stigma and stereotypes associated with mental illness continues to weigh on the mind and influence attitudes in our svijetu.Rezultati these attitudes and stereotypes can be destructive, because they often cause sufferers to their problems and avoid hidden seek treatment.

Strengthening Stigma

society and especially pop culture in many ways exaggerated and sensationalized mental illness in movies, news, books and documentary films. Extreme cases of schizophrenia and personality disorders are presented in movies and TV shows causes almost reflexive fear in people. Many films have shown abnormal or severely psychotic characters as criminals, agents of fear and instigators edge of your seat and excitement. Nonetheless, these images remain with the people and strengthen the negative stereotype placed on those who suffer from mental disorders.

is not difficult to understand why many who suffer from mental illness of any kind, be it depression, bipolar disorder, addiction, and even eating disorders, I feel to be stereotyped and judged if "exposed." They are considered that as a result of exposure, their reputation can be ruined and you will lose friends, job opportunities, respect from family members, and generally ostracized socially.

Fighting Stigma

steps are being taken in an attempt to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness. One method that has recently won the public over celebrities getting involved and using his popularity to shed some light on the subject. Many are open to discuss their experiences as "The Sopranos" star Joey Pantoliano. Pantoliano has formed a nonprofit organization called "No kidding, me 2!" is being given to removing the stigma of mental illness through education and promotion of public awareness.

is also important to publish a correction of misinformation and misrepresentation. For example, most people will probably be somewhat surprised to learn that only three percent of those who suffer from mental disorders actually turn into violence.

In addition, mental health organizations to expand their role and increase the public about the services offered, and help the public better understand mental disabilities through education. Two top resources are:

• National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI)
• Lindner center of HOPE

Formed in 1979, NAMI has one of the largest and most impressive mental illness advocacy organization in the country. Through extensive education and training led by some of the world's most famous clinicians, NAMI plays a major role in increasing awareness and reducing stigma behind mental illness.

led by one of the leaders in the field of psychiatry, Dr. Paul E. Keck, Jr., Lindner Center of Hope is a state-of-the-art mental health facility for children, adolescents and adults. It provides inpatient and residential services, as well as a range of treatments and programa.Stručnosti staff is second to none, they are some of the "best of the best ."