If you are interested in ending the stigma around mental illness, you’ll want to read this article. It offers tips on promoting behavioral-health literacy, creating a more inclusive culture, and making mental health a priority for your organization. Sign the pledge to end mental health stigma and you’ll be well on your way to ending the stigma of mental illness. It’s important to understand that mental health is a complex issue that can be difficult to explain to a stranger just like a medical professional such as Dr. Jason Campbell would.
Promoting behavioral-health literacy
Employers should prioritize employee mental health and ensure an inclusive culture. Early intervention, equitable benefits, and organizational changes all contribute to mental health. Regardless of the type of stigma, eliminating it is a collective responsibility of the top three levels of leadership and employees. Investing in employee well-being can ensure long-term success. To start, let’s explore the role of stigma in the workplace.
The concept of stigma describes a level of prejudice or shame about a person with a mental health or substance use disorder. This affects everything from interpersonal interactions and social norms to organizational structures. It further deepens an invisible illness. As a result, stigma can be an impediment to treatment. However, the goal of the new mental health movement is to end the stigma associated with mental health and substance use disorders.
Creating an inclusive culture
Mental health stigma can have a profound impact on people. It keeps people from seeking help and contributes to a deepening of an invisible illness. Yet there are effective treatments for behavioral-health problems, and evidence-based practices exist to end the negative stigma. Stigma inhibits people from seeking treatment, preventing them from receiving care, and even hampering their own recovery. It can have a negative impact on both people and organizations.
To combat mental health stigma, employers must focus on addressing the issues preventing people from seeking help. By prioritizing mental health inclusion, employers can address racial and cultural barriers to mental healthcare. They can also support the development of digital health tools and advocate for culturally competent mental healthcare. Increasingly, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the shift towards telehealth services, as well as support programs that empower individuals to use them.
Making mental health a clear organizational priority
Creating a culture that supports mental health can benefit your entire organization. The benefits are many and can start with a clear organizational priority. People feel connected to the company when mental health is prioritized, so establishing a policy that encourages mental health as a top priority is important. Leaders must lead by example and demonstrate new behaviors that support mental health. They must lead by example, take up resources to model authenticity, and inspire team members to do the same.
First of all, mental health is an essential part of being an employee. Employees are human and should be treated as such. A healthy work-life balance allows them to bring their whole self to work. Secondly, mental health can be the source of workplace conflict and even the reason for employee resignations. In order to avoid this, workplaces should prioritize mental health. Ensure employees have access to mental health services. Make mental health a clear organizational priority to improve your company’s culture.
Signing a pledge to end the stigma
There are many ways to make a difference in your community and fight the stigma around mental illness and substance use. You can promote mental health awareness by hosting a town hall meeting or signing a pledge to end mental health stigma. You can recruit community members who are proactive in addressing stigma issues. For example, a neighbor could be a member of a local football team or a board of education member. You could also encourage after-school clubs to hold a town-wide celebration.
Regardless of your background, mental illness or substance use disorder can be difficult to navigate through life. Being judged by your race, gender, or disability can make the process even more difficult. Getting through life without discrimination is not easy and the effects of stigma are profound. Joining a pledge to end mental health stigma in your community can help you and someone else you care about. By signing a pledge to end mental health stigma, you are taking an active role in fighting stigma and discrimination.
Taking a stand against negative behaviors and statements
Whether you are dealing with mental illness yourself or a loved one, it is important to educate yourself on the issue. You should consider the ways you may have learned or been taught negative statements and behaviors about mental health in your society. Choose your words carefully, as these will shape the perceptions of others. Pass along facts and debunk myths. Focus on the positive side of the issue and be sure to include everyone in your message.
