Facts Sheet- Reducing the Stigma of

Mental Illnesses

Mental illness refers to a wide range of

mental health conditions disorders that
affect your mood, thinking and behavior.

1 out of 10
people felt
there should be
less spending
on mental
health issues
The 1996 study was the first broad 50

study on stigma in 50 years.

40

30

People had broadened their view 20

of mental illness to include non- 10

psychotic conditions. 0
Item 1 Item 2 Item 3 Item 4 Item 5

50
An increasing number of
40
people defining mental
30 illness in terms of violent
20 or frightening behaviors
10 every year.
0
Item 1 Item 2 Item 3 Item 4 Item 5

Willing

Over 50% of people say they

44%

Unwilling
would be unwilling to socialize 56%

with a person living with mental

illness. Yes
25%

75% of those in the US

would not want an in-law
who is living with a
No
mental illness
75%

Stigma Can Cause

Reluctance to seek help or
treatment
Bullying, physical violence or
harassment
The belief that you'll never be
able to succeed at certain
challenges or that you can't
improve your situation

Ways to Deal With Stigma

Don't isolate yourself Reach out
to people you trust
Don't equate yourself with your
illness. You are not an illness.
L:earn More At: NAMI.org