Stigma: An Old Unmet Need in Psychiatric Practice

Abstract

The stigma associated with mental illnesses undermines social equity for people who have a mental illness, their family members, and compromises mental health programming and professionals. Numerous anti-stigma initiatives have developed in order to promote full and effective social participation for people with mental illnesses and to remove structural barriers that promote discriminatory practices. This chapter reviews mental health-related stigma, highlights some of the more active international and national anti-stigma initiatives, and discusses challenges and future directions for anti-stigma initiatives.