How Cultural Norms Shape the Stigma around Mental Health

Cultural norms have a significant impact on how people see mental health, frequently resulting in stigma that eliminates those who seek assistance. Globally, social norms determine what constitutes "normal" behaviour, and when these norms are broken, mental health issues may be described as flaws or moral shortcomings. For example, mental health problems are seen as a source of shame for the person as well as their entire family in many collectivist countries. This view inhibits candid conversations and forces victims to face their difficulties in silence. More individualistic societies, on the other hand, may promote independence and the idea that mental health issues are a sign of personal weakness rather than actual medical issues.

The demands of cultural standards and the stigma associated with mental health are especially harmful to adolescents. They frequently have to live up to social, academic, and physical standards during a critical period of identity development. For instance, the tremendous pressure to perform in high-achieving societies like South Korea or Japan might make young people more depressed and anxious, but getting professional help could be interpreted as admitting failure. Similar to this, talking about mental health may be frowned upon in some conservative societies, which leaves teenagers without the means or vocabulary to express their difficulties. By establishing unattainable ideals of perfection, social media exacerbates these demands and further isolates young people who are struggling with mental health issues.

Education, legislative improvements, and the normalisation of mental health discourse can all help to combat the stigma associated with mental health, which is ingrained in cultural standards. In order to educate youth about emotional well-being and dispel myths at an early age, schools should incorporate mental health education into their curriculum. For example, school-based programs like Mental Health Awareness Week have been successful in promoting empathy and understanding. Ensuring access to confidential and reasonably priced mental health services, especially in underprivileged communities, is another crucial role that governments and healthcare providers can play. Campaigns spearheaded by well-known individuals who candidly discuss their difficulties can aid in shattering preconceptions and inspire others to get treatment without worrying about criticism.

In the end, overcoming the stigma associated with mental health requires societal change. Communities need to create spaces where people feel comfortable expressing their stories without worrying about being shunned and where being vulnerable is not seen as weakness. Instead than brushing off people who struggle as unimportant, parents, educators, and peers need to actively listen to them and offer assistance. Employers could also establish guidelines to promote workers' mental health, like providing counselling and mental health days. Society may establish a world where mental health is given the same priority and respect as physical health by embracing openness and emphasising empathy.

-Dhrishit Patel