Hey Guy! What Are Stigmas & Why Do You Want to Smash Them?

What is social stigma?

Social stigma is the extreme disapproval of, or discontent with, a person on the grounds of characteristics that distinguish them from other members of a society. Stigma may attach to a person, who differs from social or cultural norms. Erving Goffman defined stigma as 'the process by which the reaction of others spoils normal identity'.

 For a more in depth definition see here. Here we are talking, in particular, about the social stigmas associated with mental illness. People in our society may label someone as crazy upon noticing certain behaviors, or it may even be much more subtle than that. Often people will simply be quietly regarded and treated differently if it's known that they suffer from depression or some other form of mental illness. These stigmas are unfair and do a lot to hold back progress for these people.

Due to this cultural atmosphere of stigma and bias, people suffering from mental illnesses will often refrain from talking about it. Family, friends, co-workers, or teachers may be completely unaware of the struggles going on inside a person. They often suffer in silence for fear of what people will think of them if they come out and talk about it. This is very tragic. Without talking about what is going on, they will never be able to get the help that they need. Destructive behavior up to and including suicide can result from this quiet lonely struggle.

Talking about mental illness can help greatly! It has worked wonders for me, and was certainly at least the first step toward recovery. I encourage anyone who is suffering inside to reach out and talk with someone. People will be much more understanding than you think! If you don't have someone in your life who you feel comfortable talking with, try someone with your school or local church, or come to Stigma Smash for support. I'm sure you'll find an open ear within our community!

 Stigma Smash is meant to be an open, collaborative community for discussing mental illness and mental health in order to SMASH the stigmas surrounding them. It is my goal to promote openness and  pride in who we are. The first step to eliminating stigma is for us to not be ashamed or embarrassed. People don't tend to stigmatize things which you are proud of. Mental illness is not who we are, but it is part of us, and we are becoming stronger people as a result of the struggles we go through!

 I encourage you to join my team of Stigma Smashers and tack #stigmasmashers on your social media profiles to show your support!