Understanding Stigma: Navigating Its Complexities in Suicide Prevention
📰 Newsletter
The term “stigma” is often used in conversations about mental health, substance use, suicide, and suicide prevention. However, it can mean many different things, and this complexity can make it hard to address the underlying issues effectively.
When people talk about stigma, they might be referring to:
- Self-Stigma: This is when someone feels shame or guilt for having suicidal thoughts or other struggles regarding their mental health. These feelings can lead to self-blame or hopelessness, making it harder for the person to reach out for support.
- Public Stigma: This refers to society’s negative attitudes about people with suicidal thoughts, other mental health concerns, or those who die by suicide. Sometimes, it is unclear whether the stigma is about the thoughts themselves or the act of suicide, which can blur the conversation.
- Structural stigma: This term describes practices in a system that unfairly impact some people with concerns, even if there is no ill intent on the part of the people working in the system. It is important to assume good intentions; if a teachable moment presents itself, this is an opportunity for everyone to learn and grow.
- Anticipatory Discrimination: People may fear being judged or discriminated against if they disclose their struggles. In certain environments, such as the military, this might include concerns about losing responsibilities or being removed from roles.
- Help-Seeking Stigma: Some individuals feel there is a stigma in asking for help, believing they should handle whatever difficulties they face independently.
Here are three ways to help reduce stigma:
- Ask clarifying questions to understand what the person means.
- Avoid assumptions—every experience is unique.
- Use language thoughtfully to encourage understanding and respect.