This article from the Philly Voice discusses what stigma is, how it influences our understanding of mental wellness, and what we can do to challenge it’s impact and work toward a healthy dialogue about mental health with the older adults in our lives.
Check out some of our favorite quotes below and click the Source link below to access the full article.
“Experts believe that the high level of stigmatization associated with mental health probably prevents half of seniors with conditions like depression and anxiety from seeking treatment. Furthermore, although people from all walks of life can be affected by mental health stigma, African-American seniors and other older people of color may be more likely to avoid treatment due to stigma. Sometimes, stigmas surrounding mental health are so effective at dissuading individuals from seeking treatment that they won’t show signs that they’re suffering.”
“Unfortunately, stigmas can only complicate efforts to help seniors lead happy, healthy lives, since it prevents them from talking about mental health issues. In fact, even though more than 20 percent of seniors suffer from a mental health issue, many say that they would never seek treatment.”
“Luckily, stigmas are reversible. Public opinion shifts — that’s why young adults report much less stringent attitudes about mental illness than older adults do — and exposure to new social norms can relax how stigmas affect our attitudes.”