The article that was given this month is very important as it outlines the many issues surrounding mental illness. Virtually everyone suffers from mental illness in one form or another however, stigma and discrimination still prevail. The vast majority of the population experience mental illness, however stigma remains. Society has created an environment where mental illness is frowned upon. As such, stigma affects those suffering as well as influences their individual access to care. By adding a negative connotation to mental health, individuals suffering are often more likely to shy away from receiving the treatment they need. An interesting point that was mentioned in the article regards people with more severe mental disorders. They are perceived as more violent and dangerous and in turn experience high levels of anticipated discrimination. Thus, individuals who do suffer from severe mental illness do not seek the help they need. The article further discusses the potential discrimination of specific subpopulations. Overall, mental health is a serious issue that needs to be discussed, observed, and accepted more readily.
References:
Henderson, C., Evans-Lacko, S., & Thornicroft, G. (2013). Mental Illness Stigma, Help Seeking, and Public Health Programs. Am J Public House,103(5). doi:10.2105/AJPH.2012.301056