Ahad - Stigma

Question 1

Stigma definition

Answer 1

Societal prejudice and discrimination

Question 2

Impacts of stigma

Answer 2

Delayed treatment seeking behaviour

Social isolation and discrimination

Reduced treatment attachment

Perpeutaiton of misconceptions

Influence of gender on stigma (stigma’s effect varies across different social and demographic categories)

Question 3

Culturally specific perceptions around mental health

Answer 3

Asian cultures: mental health often perceived as a sign of personal weakness or failure of self-control. saving face for family

African cultures: mental illnesses attributed to spiritual or supernatural causes such as curses or possession by evil spirits. leads to high levels of stigma, deterring people from seeking psychiatric help

Question 4

Potential strategies to address mental health stigma

Answer 4

Public awareness campaigns

cultural competency training for healthcare professionals

Question 5

Public awareness campaigns consist of:

Answer 5

Dismantling misconceptions, encouraging empathy, direct social contact with people affected, demonstrates less fear and avoidance

Question 6

Cultural competency training for healthcare professionals

Answer 6

Medical education to equip healthcare professionals with knowledge and skills to understand patient’s cultural backgrounds, reducing stigma