Stereotypes and discrimination against people with mental illnesses arise from false beliefs. Understanding the consequences of the stigma in mental illness is important because fear leads to avoidance and people who have mental illness may find it difficult to feel belong in the society. Many studies show that majority of European nations and the United States have been stigmatizing mental illness and in some cases this may even lead to unemployment. Islamic and Asian cultures were found to have the least stigmatizing and negative views on mental illness, however this might be simply a result of lack of research in these cultures. Lack of understanding from the family is also a contributing factor when it comes to consequences of stigma in mental illness. Reminding the person that the help is available and the family members will be there to listen can make the difference in someone’s mental health.

If you or someone you know is having mental health difficulties please contact our psychotherapy offices in New Jersey to talk to one of our licensed professional psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, or psychotherapists at Arista Counseling & Psychotherapy. Contact our offices at (201) 368-3700 or (212) 722-1920 to set up an appointment. For more information, please visit http://www.counselingpsychotherapynjny.com/

Ipek Yurttutan