Anti-Stigma and discrimination
When mental illnesses are used as labels, these labels hurt. Many times labels lead to discrimination. Most people know it is wrong to discriminate against people because of their race, religion, or culture. They are much less aware of how people with mental illnesses are discriminated against. Discrimination often prevents people from seeking help for fear of being labeled. Discrimination keeps people from getting jobs or advancing in the workplace. Discrimination affects housing options. And discrimination leads to prejudice, fear and mistrust. The Missouri Department of Mental Health is dedicated to combating stigma associated with mental illness.
You can access more information about stigma through the links below:
Mental Health Stigma report - a telephone survey on Missourian's attitudes toward mental illness
The survey was developed and analyses were conducted by researchers at the Missouri Institute of Mental Health, and administered by researchers at the Health and Behavioral Risk Research Center, both of which are part of the University of Missouri-Columbia.
Missouri Department of Mental Health - At a Glance
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) -
Discrimination and Stigma
Anti-Stigma: Do you know the facts?
Stop Stigma
The Surgeon General's Report on Mental Illness - Introduction and Themes
Read the President's New Freedom Initiative to address mental health. See how stigma fits in.
Read the Elimination of Barriers Initiative to see how the current initiatives were tested.
National Alliance on Mental Illness -
Fight Stigma: Become a StigmaBuster!
Breaking the Silence
In our own Voice
Active Minds on Campus - Support for college-age students living with a mental illness
Pathways to Promise - Ministry and Mental Illness
Resource Center to Promote Acceptance, Dignity and, Social Inclusion Associated with Mental Health - includes links to a variety of anti-stigma teleconferences
"Mental Health - It's part of all our lives": A Tool kit for Developing a Stigma Reduction Initiative
"What a Difference a Friend Makes" - the media anti-stigma campaign targeting youth 18-25
PSA Central - Order copies of the "What a Difference a Friend Makes" campaign video or audio Public Service Announcements
Learn about the history of the AD Council - see their campaigns through the years
