Break the Silence: Stigma-Free Mental Health

Stigma is defined as a sign of disgrace or discredit, which sets a person apart from others. Mental health stigma is the negative stereotypes one has about persons with mental health conditions which then lead to the consequent prejudice and discrimination. They encounter stigma in different facets of their life – at home and at workplace, and in relationship and social life. Media portrayal of mental illness often promote negative stereotypes, in particular, the false connection between mental illness and violence. Such negative media portrayals have a direct impact on persons with mental health conditions and their families.

There is also strong self-stigmatisation among persons with mental health conditions. More than three-quarters of people with a mental disorder did not seek any professional help in their lifetime because of stigma.

Mental health professional also face stigma from the public and even other healthcare professionals. Some may regard mental health professionals to be eccentric or even less competent than clinicians from the other medical disciplines. 

This talk focuses on the recent efforts to break the stigma of mental health in Singapore to achieve a more inclusive society for all.