18/11/2025
People often stigmatize mental illness in ways that are different from physical illnesses. Here are some examples:
1. *Blame and shame*: Mental illness is often seen as a personal failing or weakness, whereas physical illnesses are usually viewed as outside of one’s control.
2. *Lack of empathy*: People may not understand or acknowledge the severity of mental illness, leading to dismissive comments like “just snap out of it.”
3. *Framing as a character flaw*: Mental illness is often associated with negative traits like laziness or lack of willpower, whereas physical illnesses are seen as unfortunate circumstances.
4. *Fear and avoidance*: People may avoid interacting with those with mental illness due to misconceptions or fear of unpredictability.
5. *Minimizing the struggle*: Comments like “it’s just stress” or “everyone feels that way” downplay the experience of those with mental illness.
6. *Stigmatizing language*: Using terms like “crazy” or “psycho” to describe people with mental illness perpetuates negative stereotypes.
7. *Lack of support*: Mental illness is often overlooked or undertreated, with people being told to “just talk to someone” or “get over it.”
8. *Different standards for treatment*: Mental illness is often not treated with the same urgency or seriousness as physical illnesses.
These differences in perception can exacerbate the struggles of those with mental illness and prevent them from seeking help.
