During National Mental Health Awareness Month and all year long, we can help more people get care by talking openly about mental health and challenging common misconceptions.
Although progress has been made, mental health stigma is still largely prevalent in the United States and beyond. More than half of all people who have a mental health concern do not seek help for their condition, often due to stigma from themselves and others. When stigma shows up as fear, shame, or misunderstanding, it can keep people from starting a conversation, making an appointment, or sticking with treatment, sometimes for years.
Why mental health stigma matters
Stigma has real consequences for individuals, families, workplaces, and communities. Here are a few reminders of why this conversation matters:
- More than 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental health challenges each year.
- 35% of U.S. adults say they would view someone differently upon finding out they have a mental health condition.
- The average delay between onset of mental health concern symptoms and treatment is 11 years.
Dr. Gabrielle Pointon, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and our Director of Integrated Health Services shares: “For many people, acknowledging a mental health concern, both to themselves and to others, can be incredibly difficult as it requires a significant amount of vulnerability. That’s why it’s vital to share a clear message: mental health struggles are not personal failings, and seeking help is one of the most important steps you can take for yourself and those around you.”
How we can help reduce stigma
During Mental Health Awareness Month in May, consider taking one small step to support mental wellbeing in your circles. That could mean checking in on a friend, sharing reliable information, or starting a conversation at home or work. And if you’re struggling, know that you’re not alone and help is available. Reaching out for support is a sign of strength.
“Reducing stigma starts with education,” says Dr. Pointon. “When people start to recognize that physical health and mental health are equally important and impact one another, misconceptions give way to understanding and compassion.”
The importance of integrated care
At the Jane Pauley Community Health Center, we believe in an integrated care model, where all aspects of healthcare are in conversation with each other to reduce barriers to care. This model especially helps with reducing stigma surrounding healthcare.
“Integrating behavioral health into other health services helps reduce stigma and opens the door to care for people who might otherwise have never had the opportunity,” says Dr. Pointon. “When we treat mental health with physical health, people not only receive better care, but experience more improvement in their symptoms.”
When to reach out
If you’ve noticed changes in your mood, sleep, appetite, energy, or ability to manage day-to-day stress, it may be time to talk with a professional. Our team can help you explore options for medication management, therapy, and integrated care that supports both physical and mental health.
Dr. Gabrielle Pointon is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who serves as the Director of Integrated Health Services at the Jane Pauley Community Health Center and sees patients at their Wigwam location in Anderson. She received her PsyD from Indiana State University.
