Stigma: A Clinical Risk Factor for Psychopathology and Recovery

Abstract

Mental illness is fraught with stigma worldwide. The current chapter looks at stigma as a factor in recovery from mental illness, especially schizophrenia. The chapter outlines the concept of stigma and the types of stigma that may plague patients with schizophrenia and mental illness. The various aspects of stigma in India and the West and factors such as age, social support, duration of illness, marriage, and gender that affect stigma and recovery are outlined. Certain studies of importance are discussed. The various methods and scales used to measure stigma are also discussed along with special reference for stigma as a factor in recovery from schizophrenia. Anti-stigma interventions that have been successful in schizophrenia are outlined, and factors that determine successful elimination of stigma are elaborated.