Mental health is a crucial component of our overall well-being, yet it is often stigmatized and overlooked. Stigma is a barrier that prevents many people from seeking help for mental health issues, and it can lead to feelings of shame, isolation, and even discrimination. Over 23% of Americans who say they would benefit from mental health care also say that they have not yet reached out for help due to the common perception of mental health struggles.
A recent survey by Assurance revealed the 10 worst states for mental health care.
The Top 10 cities With the Worst Mental Health Care Access
- Birmingham, AL
- Phoenix, AZ
- Orlando, FL & San Antonio, TX
- Jacksonville, FL
- Atlanta, GA
- Miama, FL
- Memphis, TN
- Dallas, TX
- Houston, TX
- Las Vegas, NV
Limited access to quality mental health care naturally leads to untreated mental illness, which can have serious consequences on individuals and their communities.
Reducing stigma around mental health is crucial to improving access to care and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to lead a healthy and fulfilling life. Stigma can prevent people from seeking help, and it can also lead to discrimination and social exclusion.
Ways to Reduce Mental Health Stigma:
- Education and awareness. By increasing knowledge and understanding of mental health issues, we can help dispel myths and misconceptions. This can be done through campaigns, workshops, and community events. It’s also important to involve people with lived experience in these efforts, as their voices can be powerful in reducing stigma
- Using respectful and non-judgmental language. Words matter, and the language we use can have a big impact on how people perceive mental health issues. Avoiding derogatory or negative language and using person-first language (e.g. “person with a mental illness” instead of “mentally ill person”) can help reduce stigma and promote respect and empathy.
- Promoting the idea that mental health is a normal part of the human experience. Just as we all have physical health, we all have mental health, and it’s important to prioritize both.
- Advocating for policies that promote access to quality mental health care. This includes funding for mental health programs, incentives for mental health professionals to work in underserved areas, and expanding telemedicine options for mental health care.
We know that 70% of Americans have felt an increased need for mental health assistance from a professional in recent years so, reducing stigma around mental health is crucial. Let’s work together to reduce stigma and improve the lives of millions.
