Depression 101

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Impact of prejudice and discrimination

Fear and misunderstanding often lead to prejudice and/or discrimination against people with mental health problems. Prejudice includes unfounded and biased opinions, and discrimination is the physical act that is based on these beliefs. This can be referred to as “stigma.” When people experience prejudice and discrimination, they may feel even more hopeless and ashamed. The stigma attached to mental health problems is a serious barrier, not only to diagnosis and treatment, but to self-acceptance and acceptance in the community.

Prejudice and discrimination can:

    seriously affect someone's well-being
    stop many people from seeking treatment
    change the way people feel about themselves and the way others see them
    affect people while they are experiencing problems, while they are in treatment and while they are healing.

Stigma can have many layers. People may face stigma because of their mental health diagnosis, as well as their race, culture, religion, sexual orientation, economic status or age. Multi-layered stigma can create huge barriers for people who want to seek treatment or support.

Some people have said the prejudice they experience is worse than their original mental health problem. Anticipating or experiencing prejudice stops many people with mental health problems from seeking help or continuing treatment.

Depression 101 © , CAMH.

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