Challenging Stigma

Photo of two pairs of men and woman hugging.

Stigma and discrimination

Talking about mental health and suicide can feel hard because people might feel ashamed or scared. Some think it's a bad or weak thing, which can stop them from asking for help or helping others. But it's really important that we speak up and support each other. If we challenge these wrong ideas, we can help save lives.

Mental health problems are very common, but people still face unfair treatment because of them. This can come from the media, workplaces, or even family and friends. Sometimes, people believe these negative things about themselves, which makes them feel worse. We all need to work together to stop this and treat everyone with kindness and respect.

Challenging stigma

Here are some ways you can help to challenge stigma:

Speak out – this can involve making a statement or doing an action which shows your disapproval or objection. It is possible to make small, individual stands like speaking out or signing a petition.
Show people reliable and accurate information – this can help people to understand more, making them less likely to judge. The Start a Conversation website provides reliable information and signposting or use Start a Conversation resources to help raise awareness.
Talk about your experience – sharing your story and having more conversations about mental health and suicide can help to improve people's understanding.

Myths about mental health and suicide

There are a number of thoughts linked to suicide that are just myths. One way to help yourself and those around you is to make sure you understand the facts. Take a read through some of these myths below.

Only people with problems have mental health.

False: We all have mental health that can move up and down, day to day, just like our physical health.

People can't recover from mental illness.

False: Mental health problems don't define a person or their potential in life. Many people can and do recover from mental illness. Alongside professional help, the support of friends, family and getting back to work are all important in helping people to recover.

You can't ask someone if they're feeling suicidal.

False: Evidence shows that asking someone directly about if they are feeling suicidal or thinking about suicide could protect them. Starting this conversation provides someone with the space and permission to tell you how they really feel.

People who talk about suicide don't really mean it and are just seeking attention. They shouldn't be taken seriously.

False: If someone talks about ending their life, they should always be taken seriously. It may well be that they are talking about it to try and get the help and support they need. Being open and taking this seriously may save their life.

People who are feeling suicidal want to die.

False: The majority of people who experience feelings of suicide don't actually want to die, instead they want the situation they're in or the way they are feeling to stop and see no other way of making this happen. Often the feelings or situation causing hopelessness are temporary.

You can't tell when someone is feeling suicidal.

True & False: Suicide is complex and therefore very different for each person. Some people may not show any signs that they are struggling to cope, however, some people might. It is important to watch out for signs of changes in those closest to you. Find out more about some of the possible signs that someone may not be ok on our advice page.

You can find more myths that have been busted on the Samaritans website, along with more information on stigma, the affect it can have and advice on dealing with it on these trusted websites:

Using appropriate language

Words are a barrier to help-seeking and a motivator for making discrimination acceptable. Our language - the words we use either consciously or unconsciously are important in reinforcing or challenging either stigmatising or positive attitudes.

The below resource from Mind outlines common inaccurate terminology, and offers alternative suggestions.

Mind | Mental health language