Suicide Stigma

Family members' relationship to person may affect the extent to which the patient stigma is transferred to family members. In extreme cases, family members may begin to stigmatize the person and behave in a way that leads the patient to believe suicide is the solution for the situation. A study also found that adolescents with mental health problems found stigma directed at them coming from family members. 46% of them described stigmatization in terms of unwanted assumptions. 

Teachers 

In the same study mentioned above, 35% of adolescents reported stigma by teachers. These teachers would show "fear, dislike, avoidance, and underestimation of abilities" towards these students. 

Peers 

In the same study mentioned above, 62% of adolescents experienced stigmatization from their peers. This stigmatization leads to friendship losses and social rejection. 

Media 

The popular press has been criticized for perpetuating stereotypes, especially via film and social media. 

Film, television, and music portrayals of suicide perpetuate and glorify stereotypes that may lead to imitation acts. In social media sites such as Tumblr, the exhibition of self-harm, suicide, depression, and self-loathing are placed under the pretext of something that is "beautiful, romantic, or deep."  

This glorification of self-pity could lead to the drowning out of stories of those who are clinically depressed versus those who are not. While social media does allow for awareness on the topic and self-identification, misinformation about the mental disorders are prevalent, leading for mental illness diagnoses, such as depression, for normal everyday things.  

The stigma does not promote a healthy recovery:  

In a study published in the British Journal of Psychiatry, 83% of participants felt conscious of the stigma associated with mental illness and had difficulty seeking help. Only 54% of participants had discussed their suicidal thoughts with their family, peers, and/or spouses. 

The stigma negatively affects treatment outcomes:  

The "perceived stigma can affect feelings of shame and can lead to poorer treatment outcomes" (Psychology Today). 

The stigma negatively affects the perception of self and others:  

Those with depression and schizophrenia were viewed as unpredictable and dangerous, and those people would be less likely to be employed. 

Participate in a campaign that challenges the stigma: 

• Time to Change campaign  
• Stop Suicide Pledge  
• To Write Love on Her Arms 

Participate in discussions and events between individuals with and without mental problems. This will help improve attitudes, increase future willingness to help, and promote behaviors associated with anti-stigma engagement.