Overcoming Mental Health's Silent Stigma

For many, there were few silver linings to the storm that was the great pandemic of 2020.  We may have dialed up our walking routines or revisited forgotten hobbies, but for the most part the pandemic was an unprecedented challenge – emotionally, socially, spiritually, and physically.   But from these challenges one benefit has emerged, an elevated conversation about mental health.

We’ve recently heard from actors, sports stars, and other public figures, usually by way of their social media posts, publicly sharing their mental health struggles.  This has no doubt helped destigmatize mental health, but is it enough?  Can we do more?  I believe we can.  Especially those of us in a faith-based environment.  Our efforts can cut through shame, normalize challenges and help those who may be struggling.

But what, exactly, is stigma and how does it impact mental health? Stigma is generally defined as a set of negative and often unfair beliefs about someone or something. For anyone who has been challenged by mental health issues, you know what stigma is and that it can lead to shame.  And that shame is often manifested by a reluctance to seek treatment.  

Perhaps the greatest consequence of mental health stigma is the barrier it creates for seeking therapeutic treatment.  One should not be surprised then that it takes the average person more than eight years to seek treatment for mental health conditions.

For many who consider themselves believers, the perceived shame is even worse.  In the routine life of many church communities, there seems little relief for those suffering from anxiety, depression, or other mental health disorders. Often, it’s “dive deeper into scripture,” “pray harder,” or “worship more frequently.”  To be sure, these spiritual disciplines are important and should help us navigate life’s many challenges.  But how do they relieve stigma?

We can first start with the language we use.  It’s more than avoiding inflammatory words and labels such as “crazy” or “addict.”  Often, it’s a case of misapplying clinical terminology.  He is “schizo” because he always seems unorganized, or she is “bipolar” because she has an unpredictable personality.  Being more mindful of how we speak is a good start.  Taking this a step further, consider using person-centered language.  Rather than labeling someone as schizophrenic, for example, refer to them as someone who has schizophrenia.  

What else can we do to address mental health stigma?  According to the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI), here are several approaches to consider.

Talk openly about mental health.  Whether with family, friends, or coworkers, be inquisitive and generate conversation.  Social media platforms can be a great way of tapping into healthy discussions about many mental health disorders.

Educate yourself and others.  The more we learn the more we know.  There are a number of excellent resources, including https://beaconoflightmh.org, that offer straightforward discussions about mental health and mental illness.  If you hear someone using derogatory language ,for example, take the time to explain why this perpetuates stigma.

Encourage parity between physical and mental illness.  Often when people understand the true facts about mental illnesses and understand that these are diseases of the brain, they are more sensitive to the language they use and those to whom they are applying it.  Would we make fun of someone with cancer or heart disease?  Not likely.

Show compassion for those who are struggling with mental illnesses.  Remind them of their courage to seek treatment.  Rather than ignoring them, engage them in honest conversation. Something as simple as a hug can go a long way as well.

For church pastors and lay leaders, build a culture and a community that is mental health friendly.  Beacon of Light suggests the following:

Include mental health in your prayer ministry.  Have your prayer team and your congregational prayers include those challenged by depression, substance use, anxiety, and other disorders.  This will encourage a more open dialog about these issues.

Don’t forget the sermons.  There are numerous scriptural references and biblical characters that highlight God’s grace for those with mental health disorders.  During Mental Health Awareness Month (May), for example, highlight Jesus’ teachings in the Sermon on the Mount where he addresses worry (Matt. 6:25), and anxiety (Matt 6:31-33).  

Offer peer-led support groups.  Position your church as a safe place for one or more of the many support groups that offer help for common mental health disorders. Consider hosting or starting chapters for Celebrate Recovery, Alcoholics Anonymous, Families Anonymous, or Al-Anon.

Develop relationships with mental health providers.  Get to know therapists, psychiatrists, and other mental health practitioners in your community. Not only will you learn more and be a more effective spiritual leader, but you’ll establish important referral options when families are in crisis and call on you for help.

For more information about mental health conditions, treatment, and resources please visit Beacon of Light at www.beaconoflightmh.org.  

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