Combating Mental Health Stigma

We all have a role in combating stigma

Stigma among people contending with mental health conditions and substance use disorders continues to be a major challenge in the behavioral health field, despite increased knowledge and awareness about mental health in the general public. Only about 20% of adults and children with mental health related problems receive needed services and stigma is a major contributor, directly and indirectly, to these low levels of service use. Mental health stigma can negatively contribute to help seeking, accuracy of diagnosis, continuity of treatment, quality of care, achieving treatment goals (including recovery), and self-esteem among people contending with mental health conditions.

Behavioral health organizations and providers can take steps to address various forms of mental health stigma, such as self-stigma and institutional stigma.

Check out the menu on the left for resources designed to help providers and organizations combat mental health stigma.

Check back often as we will continue to add resources!