Stigma

STIGMA around mental illness exists in the world because of a lack of understanding and knowledge, but many are eager and curious to learn about mental health, especially our youth!

Stigma is the use of stereotypes and labels when describing someone and it is often attached to people who suffer from mental health issues.

Stigma exists in our world and makes the subject of mental illness 'weird' or difficult to talk about. Many people feel shameful and devastated and the purpose of BIPOLAR BABE is to create a conversation free of stigma encouraging people to have hope and be inspired by the possibilities that life offers.

Stigma is a harsh reality for people who have mental health problems, because it prevents them from enjoying a normal and productive life.  In fact, many people are so uncomfortable with the stigma associated with mental illness that they would rather suffer in silence than get the help that they need.

Here are a few of the most common misconceptions about mental health problems:

• Mentally ill people have a weak character.
• Mentally ill people are potentially dangerous.
• People with mental illness should just “snap out of it."
• Mentally ill people are violent.

The media has only further fueled our distorted beliefs about mental health issues. Frequently, characters on television and in the movies that have a mental illness are depicted as dangerous, unpredictable and violent.  Can you think of any instances where you have seen this?

BIPOLARBABE is determined that we are going to 'stomp out stigma!' We can learn a lot from the stories of other people who have survived mental illness and these experiences will be key in helping others to understand. You can hear about them by clicking STORIES and if you want to take on STIGMA too, let us know and send us your story.