Stigma and Mental Health

People with mental illness tend to face double-edged sword where they have to deal with mental and stigma from the community and at times family. Stigma is defined as a mark of shame or disgrace and can refer to negative attitudes toward health problems and other conditions. It causes shame, prejudice and hopelessness and inhibits over half of those living with mental illness from seeking treatment.
Stigma of mental illness(W.H.O). All of us can make a difference by making a commitment to end stigma and discrimination.

How Do You Cope With Stigma?

• Accept yourself. As cliche as it may sound, stigma doesn't just come from others. stigma begins with you. The minute you accept that this is you and be willing to work towards your betterment, it becomes easy even for the rest of the community to accept you.
• Don't lock people out. Share with friends and family about your condition and open up for them to come in and help you where they can. Reach out to people you trust for the compassion, support and understanding you need. You might be surprised just how much people would willing to help you out.
• You Are NOT Your Illness. Move from saying " I am schizophrenic" to saying "I have schizophrenia." The common saying that says 'You are what you tell yourself/say you are' happens to be very true.
• Speak Out. Advocate against stigma within your circles, at your workplace or any chance you get. Once you do this, it will encourage any other people who might be suffering from the same. 

Mental illness is just like any other illness and it should not make you any less of a person so, Keep calm and end Mental Illness Stigma! :)