I think there is so much stigma around mental illness because of the ways people viewed it years ago. They did not know much about mental illness so it was never addressed and almost looked at as a sign of weakness in your family. These people years ago kept it a secret and created this negativity about it. There were no resources to help them or even significant information about it. Back then, family members of those who passed away due to mental illness, usually came up with an alternative reason for their death to tell others. In fact, this happened to my grandmother’s brother who had mental illness and took his life. Never once was it talked about and nobody ever asked or spoke about what he was dealing with. Back then, the shame and stigma around mental illness just spread to more people feeling ashamed, different, or like something bad is wrong with them, causing them to hide it and never talk about it. If you think about social media, it has such an influence on all people. So you can imagine that those with mental illness are less likely to be open about themselves with the fear of cyberbullying. Luckily today, we have so many resources and are encouraged to talk to others about it. I think some factors that contribute to self-stigma are that people do not want to feel different. However, it has become way more normalized as time has gone on. You see actors portraying people with mental illness in shows and movies. In the book it talked about how older movies/ shows portrayed it negatively. But in contrast, newer shows and movies are showing that it is okay and that many people suffer with it. In addition, famous people are coming out and sharing their own struggles with mental illness. People can now use these figures as inspiration as it shines light on the idea that mental illness does not have to be kept a secret anymore and that it is becoming more normalized.
Different cultures can also influence mental illness and the feelings of those who have mental illness. In some cultures, mental illness is not talked about or acknowledged. Therefore, if you are someone with mental illness, it is likely that it will be kept a secret. Sometimes they are even shunned and looked down upon. If your culture focuses on a higher power for answers and healing, it is likely those who have mental illness will not be supported in getting medical help and might have a harder time controlling it. The book talks about non pharmacological ways to treat the dysphoria or anxiety but if cultures are not providing these resources or making you feel guilty for seeking them, it is only going to make life harder for those with mental illness. This also goes for the cultures that do not believe in medicine or modern day treatments. As it was mentioned in the textbook, some mental illnesses require medical support/ tools to make any difference in the individual’s life. Without the support from the culture you are a part of, the struggle will continue and could possibly result in death.
