What you can do to end mental health stigma

Every year we raise awareness on the importance of mental health. It’s important for us to be aware of the facts around mental health to help break the silence and stigma that isolates and prevents people from getting the help they need. Here’s what you can do to help end stigma around mental health.

Why end the stigma?

While there may be other factors that play a role in some of us not receiving the help or treatment we need, the main reason is stigma and discrimination. By educating yourself, raising awareness and taking steps to fight mental health stigma, the more you can show your support to those in your community.

What can you do?

• Talk openly about mental health and the fact that it is common and treatable.
• Educate yourself and others. Learn more about mental health recovery and how to offer support.
• Support friends and family who reach out to you or are struggling with a mental health condition.
• Be conscious of language.  Don’t use terms such as “crazy”, or “psycho”. Always address the person first, not the illness.
• Let others know when they are stigmatizing mental health. By saying nothing, you are silently endorsing stigma.
• Treat physical and mental health equally. Much of what we do physically impacts us mentally, so it’s important to pay attention to both your physical and mental health.

Speaking about mental health more often with friends and family can help us maintain our mental well-being regularly. Whether you struggle with severe or occasional mental health conditions, talking to people we trust can help to better care for our overall well-being and health.

The only way to end the stigma around mental health, is by openly talking about it and educating our friends, family and our communities on the facts. It’s our responsibility to continue raising awareness about our mental health as it’s a vital part of overall health.

Show compassion towards those with mental health conditions and their families in the same manner you would if they had a physical illness. Call to check in and offer your time and support. Removing stigma associated with mental health conditions will encourage those struggling with it to openly seek help and treatment.

Remember if you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).