Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health

by Suzie Booth, Counsellor/Psychotherapist, MSc. MBACP (accred.)

We've explored the background of mental health stigma. Let's start thinking about how to tackle it...

People living with mental health problems face some of the greatest barriers to feeling secure in work, housing, relationships, and society. Compared with other long-term health conditions, mental health challenges are still deeply stigmatised, and then stigma makes recovery even harder.

The good news? There are things you can do to protect yourself and educate others. And there are equally important ways all of us can help stop stigma in its tracks.

If You’re Living With a Mental Health Problem

Share Reliable Information

Stigma often stems from misunderstanding. Sharing trusted resources can help those around you learn what your diagnosis actually means and how it impacts daily life. Mind has excellent, accessible pages on a wide range of mental health conditions. Pointing people there can clear up myths and spark more supportive conversations.

Stay Involved in Your Care

When you’re unwell, it’s easy to hand decisions over to others. But feeling part of your treatment matters. Ask questions, find out why certain approaches are recommended, and explore what role you can play in your own progress. Being informed gives you more control and confidence.

Know Your Rights

Whether it’s sick pay, time off work, or healthcare access, you have rights. If you’re unsure where you stand, reach out to an advocate or advice service who can help you navigate the system and make sure your voice is heard.

Talk About Your Experience

If you feel able, sharing your story can powerfully reduce stigma. It helps others see the person behind the label. You don’t have to do it while you’re in crisis, you might prefer to write, blog, or talk once you’re feeling stronger. Every conversation chips away at misunderstanding.

Get Involved in Campaigns

Joining a mental health campaign can help you feel part of something bigger. Whether online, local, or national, campaigns allow you to actively challenge stigma and show others they’re not alone.

If You Want to Support Someone Else

Stigma doesn’t just come from silence, it often shows up in everyday language and attitudes. Here’s how to make sure you’re part of the solution, not the problem...

Don’t Label People

We wouldn’t say “she is cancer” or “he is asthma.” So we shouldn’t say “she’s schizophrenic” or “he’s bipolar.” Instead, say “she has schizophrenia” or “he has bipolar disorder.” The difference matters, people are more than their diagnosis.

Don’t Use Disrespectful Terms

Phrases like “this weather is so depressing” or “you’re so OCD” might seem harmless, but they trivialise serious conditions. For someone living with depression or OCD, hearing their illness reduced to a throwaway comment can be deeply invalidating.

Don’t Be Simplistic or Blaming

Telling someone with depression to “look on the bright side” is as unhelpful as telling someone with cancer to “focus on their healthy organs.” Mental health problems aren’t caused by a lack of gratitude or willpower, and implying that they are only deepens shame.

Be a Role Model

Lead by example. Speak with respect, challenge harmful comments, and promote understanding in your circles. Stigma thrives in silence, but you can help change the tone of conversations.

Moving Forward Together

Stigma is a two-way issue; those experiencing mental health problems can feel empowered by knowing their rights, sharing their stories, and staying involved in care. At the same time, communities can play a huge role in dismantling harmful stereotypes by being thoughtful, compassionate, and well-informed.

Next time, we’ll be looking at how to start a conversation about mental health, whether you’re worried about yourself or someone else.