Mental health stigma refers to the negative attitudes, beliefs and misconceptions that lead to discrimination against individuals struggling with mental health conditions, such as depression. This stigma often manifests as negative judgement, stereotyping or the marginalisation of those experiencing depression. The effects of stigma can further isolate individuals and worsen their condition.
Despite the growing awareness and understanding of mental health issues in recent years, stigma remains a major barrier that prevents many people from seeking help. The fear of stigmatising labels, such as being labelled as ‘lazy’, ‘selfish’, ‘attention seeking’, ‘weak’ or ‘broken’, can discourage individuals who need it from accessing treatment, confiding in others or addressing their mental health needs.
Today, we will explore the stigma surrounding depression, focusing on the damaging impact it has on individuals and offering practical ways to challenge and change these harmful misconceptions.
What is Mental Health Stigma?
Every year in the UK, 1 in 4 people experience a mental health problem, with 19.7% of people aged over 16 experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression. Even though a large percentage of the population experiences mental health difficulties, harmful mental health stigmas still exist.
Mental health stigma refers to the negative beliefs, attitudes and stereotypes directed at individuals who experience mental health issues such as depression. This stigma fuels prejudice, discrimination and social exclusion and often creates additional emotional and psychological burdens for those already struggling with their mental health. There are two main types of stigma that occur:
Public stigma
This involves the negative attitudes, stereotypes and discriminatory behaviours that society as a whole holds towards individuals with mental health conditions such as depression. Public stigma can manifest in various ways, such as viewing people with depression as weak, unstable or less capable, which can result in exclusion or marginalisation in social, professional and even healthcare settings.
Self-stigma
This occurs when individuals with depression internalise the negative perceptions and stereotypes that society holds. Self-stigma leads to feelings of shame, guilt and worthlessness, as individuals may begin to believe the harmful messages they encounter. This internalised stigma can make it more difficult for someone with depression to seek help, which can further isolate them and intensify their symptoms.
Why Does Stigma Surrounding Depression Exist?
Depression is a common mental health disorder that affects how a person feels, thinks and manages daily activities. Although it is normal to feel sad or stressed at different times, for most people, negative thoughts and emotions occur in response to a life event and are usually transient. Depression, on the other hand, is characterised by persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness and a lack of interest or pleasure in most activities that occur nearly every day for at least two weeks.
Depression can affect anyone, regardless of their age, gender, ethnicity, religion, status, income level and level of success. It is a complex condition and can range in severity, from mild episodes to more chronic, severe forms. Depression affects people differently and symptoms may vary, but some of the most common signs include:
- Persistent sadness or an empty mood
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Fatigue or lack of energy
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Sleep disturbances (insomnia or oversleeping)
- Feelings of worthlessness, guilt or helplessness
- Thoughts of death or suicide
The stigma surrounding depression persists due to several interconnected factors that shape how society views and responds to mental health. Some of the key contributors include:
- Lack of understanding or education about mental health
Many people still have limited knowledge about depression and mental health in general. This lack of understanding leads to misconceptions, such as equating depression with occasional sadness or seeing it as something that can be easily overcome. Without proper education about the causes, symptoms and complexities of depression, misinformation continues to spread, which further perpetuates stigma. - Stereotypes that depict depression as a sign of weakness or failure
A major driver of stigma is the belief that depression is a sign of personal weakness, laziness or failure. Individuals with depression are often unfairly judged as being unable to handle life’s challenges or as lacking the willpower to overcome their feelings. These stereotypes fail to recognise depression as a legitimate medical condition that can affect anyone, regardless of their strength, resilience or achievements. - Cultural and societal norms that discourage open discussion of emotions and mental health
In many cultures and societies, there is a strong emphasis on self-reliance and emotional control. In the UK, we often hear phrases such as ‘a stiff upper lip’ and ‘keep calm and carry on’. Expressing vulnerability or discussing mental health issues like depression is often seen as inappropriate or shameful and people may worry that it seems like they are complaining or just want attention. Societal norms may encourage people to keep their problems to themselves or prioritise other things over their mental well-being. These barriers make it harder for individuals to seek help and further reinforce the idea that depression is something to be hidden rather than openly addressed.
Together, these factors contribute to the continued stigma surrounding depression and make it difficult for individuals to speak up, seek support and receive the care they need.
The Impact of Stigma on Individuals with Depression
Stigma can be extremely harmful to the person experiencing depression, their loved ones and society as a whole. Some ways that stigma can affect individuals with depression include:
Emotional and Psychological Effects:
The stigma surrounding depression has profound emotional and psychological consequences for those affected. It often leads to:
- Shame and guilt:
Individuals with depression may feel ashamed of their condition and internalise societal beliefs that their struggles reflect personal failure. This guilt often leads to self-blame, even though depression is a medical condition that is not within an individual’s control. - Isolation:
Stigma can push individuals to hide their depression out of fear of being judged or misunderstood. This secrecy can create feelings of loneliness, which can worsen depressive symptoms. The lack of social support, combined with the weight of isolation, can make recovery more difficult. - Worsening symptoms:
Internalised stigma, where people adopt society’s negative perceptions of depression, can worsen feelings of worthlessness and helplessness. This self-stigmatisation can exacerbate depressive symptoms and lead to a cycle where individuals feel too ashamed to seek help, which in turn worsens their mental health.
Barriers to Treatment:
Stigma creates significant obstacles to accessing mental health treatment and support. Many individuals avoid seeking therapy, medication or professional help due to the fear of being labelled as ‘crazy’, ‘attention seeking’ or ‘weak’. This fear of judgement may deter them from discussing their mental health concerns, even with family or friends.
Stigma often leads to a delay in recognising and treating depression. Individuals may downplay their symptoms or convince themselves that they can overcome their symptoms by themselves. They may fear being diagnosed with depression as they don’t want depression on their medical records out of fear of how doctors may listen to them or treat them in the future. This delay in seeking treatment can lead to a worsening of symptoms, more severe episodes and longer recovery times. Early intervention is key in treating depression effectively but stigma often stands in the way of timely care.
Social and Economic Consequences:
The impact of stigmatising attitudes can extend beyond the individual and can also affect their social and professional lives, for example:
- Strained relationships:
Depression and the stigma associated with it can strain personal relationships. Friends and family members may not understand the individual’s condition or may view it as something temporary or overdramatised, which can lead to distancing or conflict. This lack of support can compound feelings of isolation. - Job loss and reduced quality of life:
Depression, particularly when untreated, can impact an individual’s ability to maintain a job, perform well at work or engage in daily responsibilities. Stigma in the workplace may prevent employees from seeking adjustments or support as they worry that disclosing their mental health struggles will lead to discrimination or job loss. - Economic burden:
Untreated depression contributes to increased absences and reduced productivity, which can lead to financial strain for individuals and organisations. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression is one of the leading causes of workplace disability worldwide, and the stigma that keeps individuals from seeking help only exacerbates the economic impact.
Common Misconceptions About Depression
Some of the most common misconceptions about depression include:
Misconception: Depression is just sadness.
One of the most widespread misconceptions is that depression is simply a prolonged period of sadness. However, depression is far more complex than feeling sad or down. It is a mental health disorder that affects not only a person’s mood but also their energy levels, sleep patterns, concentration and ability to function in daily life. People with depression often experience persistent fatigue, feelings of worthlessness, difficulty concentrating and a loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed. These symptoms can last for weeks, months or even years and cannot be resolved by simply ‘cheering up’, ‘thinking positively’ or ‘getting over it’.
Misconception: People with depression are weak or lazy.
Another harmful misconception is that depression is a sign of personal weakness or laziness. This belief stems from the stereotype that mental health issues reflect a lack of willpower or character. In reality, depression is a medical condition that is influenced by a combination of factors, including brain chemistry, genetics and environmental stressors such as trauma or significant life changes. It is not a matter of mental strength or choice and individuals with depression often put in significant effort just to manage their day-to-day lives. This misconception minimises the genuine struggle people with depression face and discourages them from seeking help.
Misconception: Anti-depressants are a crutch.
There is also a misconception that taking antidepressants is a form of dependency or a ‘quick fix’ for depression. This belief can stigmatise the use of medication as part of treatment. In reality, antidepressants, when prescribed appropriately, are essential for managing depression for many people. Just as medication is used to manage physical illnesses like diabetes or high blood pressure, antidepressants can help correct chemical imbalances in the brain that contribute to depression. For some individuals, medication is a necessary part of their treatment plan and allows them to better manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life, as without medication, their depression may significantly worsen.
Misconception: Depression isn’t really a medical illness.
Many people wrongly believe that depression is not a legitimate medical condition but is actually a temporary emotional state or mood. In reality, depression is a recognised mental health disorder with identifiable symptoms that can affect every aspect of a person’s life. Like physical illnesses, depression often requires medical intervention, such as therapy, medication or both.
Misconception: Depression is the same for everyone.
Depression manifests differently in different people. While some may experience persistent sadness or low energy, others might feel irritable, anxious or emotionally numb. It is a highly individualised condition, which means there is no one-size-fits-all approach to understanding or treating it.
Misconception: It is easy to tell if someone is depressed.
Many people believe depression is always visible, but it often isn’t. Some individuals, particularly those with high-functioning depression, may appear outwardly fine, continue with daily activities and maintain social interactions, all while struggling internally. The assumption that depression always looks a certain way can prevent people from recognising or addressing it.
Misconception: Depression only affects adults.
Depression can affect individuals of any age, including children and adolescents. The Mental Health of Children and Young People in England, 2023 Survey, published by the NHS, found that 20.3% of 8- to 16-year-olds and 23.3% of 17- to 19-year-olds had a probable mental health disorder in 2023. Unfortunately, young people are often overlooked when it comes to mental health care, with their symptoms being dismissed as typical moodiness or growing pains. Additionally, stigma about mental health in children and adolescents exists and these stigmas and misconceptions can prevent young people from getting the help they need at a critical time. Untreated depression in children and adolescents significantly increases the risk of long-term mental health difficulties, substance abuse, lower functioning in school, work and social relationships, and increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviours.
Misconception: How can someone be depressed when their life is so good/easy?
This is one of the most damaging beliefs about depression and can cause someone to be embarrassed or ashamed and refuse to seek help and support. People often assume that individuals with successful careers, happy families or fulfilling lives can’t be depressed. However, depression doesn’t discriminate based on external factors like wealth, status or outward happiness. Even those who seem to ‘have it all’ can be affected by depression.
Breaking Down the Barriers: Steps to Reduce Stigma
There are many steps people can take to reduce stigma and break down barriers, including encouraging open conversations. Open and honest discussions about mental health are essential for normalising the experience of depression and reducing stigma. When people talk about depression without judgement, it helps break the silence that perpetuates shame and isolation. Talking openly also encourages others to share their experiences and promotes greater understanding.
Tips for encouraging open conversation include:
- Approach the topic with empathy and openness and express concern without making assumptions.
- Use neutral, non-judgemental language when addressing the topic of mental health or voicing your concerns.
- Encourage sharing but respect their comfort level. Don’t pressure someone to disclose more than they are willing to.
- Be patient and open-minded and allow them to express their feelings without trying to ‘solve’ the problem right away.
As well as open conversation, another way to reduce stigma is through education. Education is a powerful tool to challenge the harmful misconceptions about depression. When people learn the facts about depression, it reduces fear and misinformation and normalises depression within society. Some ways to promote education and awareness include:
- Share factual information about depression through conversations, social media or public forums and highlight that depression is a medical condition, not a personal failing.
- Encourage schools and workplaces to implement mental health programmes that provide education and resources as these can help to build mental health literacy at all levels of society.
- In the workplace, suggest mental health training or resources that promote understanding and inclusivity.
- Support media efforts that responsibly portray depression and other mental health issues, as accurate depictions can shift public attitudes and combat stereotypes.
- When consuming media, critically evaluate portrayals of depression and challenge those that perpetuate harmful myths, such as depictions of people with depression as violent or hopeless.
Challenging negative and harmful stereotypes is essential for breaking down stigma. Stereotypes, whether voiced in casual conversations or media representations, reinforce misunderstandings about depression and mental illness. One way to challenge stereotypes is to speak up when you hear someone spreading misinformation or making derogatory remarks about depression and correct them with facts or share a more empathetic perspective.
If someone close to you is dealing with depression, understanding their difficulties and offering compassionate support can make a significant difference to their well-being. There are many ways to support someone with depression, including:
- Listen without judgement: Allow your loved one to share their feelings without interrupting or offering unsolicited advice.
- Offer help and support in a way they are comfortable with: Depression isn’t something that can be quickly resolved. Instead of giving solutions, offer small, practical help like assisting with daily tasks or being a comforting presence.
- Encourage professional support: Gently suggest seeking professional help when needed, such as talking to a therapist or doctor, but respect their autonomy in deciding when and how to seek treatment, unless you are concerned for their well-being or the safety of the individual or others. For example, if a loved one is experiencing suicidal thoughts, you should call 999, visit A&E or contact their GP immediately.
Empathy can be extremely effective in helping to break down stigma. Treating individuals with depression with kindness and understanding and offering your unwavering support can help to reduce stigma and the shame and embarrassment some people experience. It can also help encourage people to speak up when they are struggling, without the fear of being judged.
The Role of Mental Health Advocacy and Support Networks
Mental health advocacy plays a critical role in reducing the stigma surrounding depression by raising awareness, influencing policy and providing resources to those affected. Advocacy groups, charities and organisations work tirelessly to create a more inclusive society where mental health is understood and respected.
Advocacy groups work to change outdated or harmful views about depression through campaigns, public education and media engagement. By sharing personal stories, research and expert insights, they challenge the myths and stereotypes that often fuel stigma. These organisations also advocate for better mental health policies, such as increased funding for mental health services, improved access to care and stronger workplace protections for individuals with depression. Through legislative efforts, they push for systemic change that can help dismantle the institutional stigma surrounding mental health.
Many advocacy groups offer direct support services, such as helplines, educational materials and mental health workshops. They also connect individuals with mental health professionals and create platforms for people to share their experiences and seek guidance in a supportive, non-judgemental environment. Creating safe, non-judgemental spaces for discussing mental health is vital in helping individuals feel understood and supported. Support networks and peer groups provide environments where people with depression can openly express their thoughts and feelings without fear of stigma.
Support groups allow individuals to connect with others who share similar experiences, which can help to reduce feelings of isolation. Hearing others’ stories and offering mutual support can be a powerful reminder that they are not alone. In these safe spaces, individuals can speak about their depression without fear of judgement, which can be an important step towards healing. These groups offer a platform for open dialogue and understanding, which helps normalise discussions about mental health.
There are many different support groups available in the UK, both in-person and online. General support groups for depression are available, as well as support groups for specific types of depression, such as Postnatal Depression. Recommended support groups include:
- Mental Health Foundation:
The Mental Health Foundation offers links to several different types of support groups, including NHS support groups, peer support groups, self-help groups, one-to-one support and online forums. They also offer support groups aimed at certain people, for example, those dealing with child bereavement, those who follow a certain religion, from a certain ethnic group, or those who also have other health difficulties. - Mental Health UK:
Mental Health UK has opened 40 new support groups across the UK, including talking groups, sports and leisure groups, gardening groups, cooking groups and dog walking groups. The goal is to help individuals struggling with their mental health to feel less isolated, have access to support and information, be able to speak openly and have access to hobbies. - Mind:
Mind runs an online support group, Side by Side, that offers mental health support and chat forums for adults struggling with their mental health. For people looking for in-person support groups, peer support groups or specific types of support (e.g. for those in the LGBTQIA+ community), Mind also provides links and guidance about different support groups in the UK and finding the right support group for you.
Alongside support groups, mental health programmes and mental health support can be adopted by workplaces, schools and communities to promote inclusivity and provide support for individuals managing depression.
- Workplaces: Companies can reduce stigma by promoting mental health awareness and offering resources such as employee assistance programmes, mental health days and training for managers to support employees with depression. Creating a culture of inclusivity encourages employees to seek help when needed, without fear of negative consequences.
- Schools: Schools play a critical role in shaping attitudes towards mental health from an early age. Mental health education programmes that teach students about depression and emotional well-being can create a more informed and supportive generation. Schools can also offer counselling services and peer support programmes to improve emotional resilience and support staff and students struggling with their mental health.
- Communities: Community centres, libraries and local organisations can create mental health workshops, discussion forums and support networks. By making mental health support accessible at a community level, they provide a valuable resource for individuals who may not know where to turn for help.
Through advocacy, education and the creation of safe, inclusive spaces, mental health organisations and support networks can play a pivotal role in breaking down the barriers that stigma creates. These efforts empower individuals with depression to seek the care and understanding they deserve.
Stories of Breaking the Stigma: Personal Accounts
Personal accounts of individuals who have bravely shared their experiences with depression can be a powerful tool in challenging stigma and inspiring others to seek help. These stories help normalise the conversation around mental health and show that overcoming stigma is possible through courage, openness and support.
When celebrities and other successful people share their stories of depression, this helps to break down some of the barriers and stigma, shows that depression can affect anyone and helps to remove some of the shame and embarrassment that people feel about their mental health difficulties.
Below are some stories that can help to break the stigma surrounding depression.
Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson
Dwayne Johnson, a well-known public figure in acting and wrestling, has spoken openly about his struggles with depression, particularly during his early career. Johnson described a period of deep emotional turmoil when his dreams of becoming a professional football player were shattered. Despite his public image as a strong, resilient figure, he has shared that his battle with depression was one of his greatest challenges. By openly discussing his experiences, The Rock has not only humanised depression but also encouraged others, especially men, to speak out about their mental health without fear of being seen as weak.
Lady Gaga
Pop superstar Lady Gaga has also been vocal about her experiences with depression and anxiety. Through her work with the ‘Born This Way Foundation’, she advocates for mental health awareness, particularly among young people. Gaga has shared personal stories of her emotional struggles, letting fans and the public know that mental health challenges can affect anyone, regardless of their success or fame. By being vulnerable and open, she has inspired countless individuals to seek help and speak up about their own mental health challenges.
Prince Harry
Prince Harry has been very open about his struggles with mental health, including depression and anxiety, particularly after the loss of his mother, Princess Diana. Through initiatives like the ‘Heads Together’ campaign, which he launched with Prince William and Princess Kate, Harry has worked to encourage open conversations about mental health. His vulnerability has inspired others to seek help and has brought greater awareness to mental health issues globally.
Michael Phelps
Olympic swimming champion Michael Phelps has been forthright about his struggles with depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts. After achieving monumental success in his career, Phelps experienced post-Olympic depression and opened up about feeling lost and disconnected. He now advocates for mental health awareness, particularly through his involvement with mental health organisations like ‘Talkspace’. Phelps encourages athletes and others to seek help and to understand that mental health is as important as physical health.
‘Sara’
An anonymised personal story from a young professional, Sara, explains her battle with depression while trying to maintain a demanding career as a lawyer. Initially, Sara felt she had to hide her condition out of fear that her colleagues would judge her as incapable or weak. However, after joining a peer support group, Sara found the courage to open up about her depression to a trusted coworker, who responded with empathy and understanding. This small step led her to seek therapy and eventually share her story with a wider circle of friends and colleagues. Sara’s story shows that breaking the silence and finding supportive allies can help individuals overcome both the stigma and the emotional burden of depression.
These stories of overcoming stigma highlight that while mental health stigma still exists, it can be dismantled through open conversations, education and courage. By sharing their personal experiences, individuals demonstrate that no one is immune to depression and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Conclusion
The stigma surrounding depression is a widespread issue that inflicts significant harm on individuals and society as a whole. It creates barriers to seeking help, encourages feelings of shame and isolation and perpetuates misunderstandings about mental health. This stigma not only impacts the well-being of those affected by depression but also affects society’s ability to address mental health issues effectively. The urgent need for change is clear and, with mental health difficulties on the rise, challenging the negative attitudes and misconceptions that fuel stigma has never been more important.
Everyone has a role to play in reducing this stigma, regardless of whether they experience a mental health condition or not. Whether through personal actions, engaging in open dialogue or supporting mental health advocacy efforts, everyone can contribute to a culture that promotes understanding and compassion. Actively challenging stereotypes, educating ourselves and others and providing support to those in need can help to create a society where mental health is openly discussed and individuals feel safe to seek help without fear of judgement.
Removing stigma requires collective effort and empathy. As more individuals share their stories and experiences and as communities come together to support one another, this helps to encourage open conversations surrounding mental health.
