Stigma, Discrimination and Self-stigma manifests in various life situations (eg living with overweight/obesity, living in poverty and people with a mental health issue), with considerable negative effects for those experiencing it.

 

Stigma is the internal negative beliefs, thoughts and feelings which individuals may hold and is commonly based upon mis-information. The subsequent mind-set leads to prejudicial attitudes and actions towards others.

 

Discrimination is the external behaviours that result from the internal negative beliefs. It may also be present in institutional policies, practices and laws that denies people their rights or limits societal inclusion.

 

Self-stigma occurs when a person internalises (adopts) the negative stereotypes which are projected onto their circumstances or condition. This leads to negative emotions, diminished self-esteem and low efficacy. The ‘internalisation’ can cause an individual to avoid treatment or opportunities and undermines their capability to achieve goals and improve wellbeing (eg within the recovery process).

 

Further Information and Training Opportunities                                                    

To promote increased understanding and reduce or eliminate the above prejudicial beliefs and behaviours, several organisations provide information and on-line self-learning training. Please see contact details below.

 

Turas eLearn Access to NHS Education for Scotland (NES) and Public Health Scotland (PHS) Learning Zone. Training programmes (NES or PHS) include:

‘Challenging Weight Stigma’, ‘Essential Perinatal and Infant Mental Health: Stigma’, ‘Challenging Poverty Stigma and Discrimination’ and ‘HIV: Stigma and You’.

 

‘See Me’ www.seemescotland.org

A campaign to challenge mental health stigma and discrimination in Scotland. ‘See Me’ offers resources, events, stories and campaigns.

 

Scottish Recovery Network (SRN) www.scottishrecovery.net

Promotes and supports mental health recovery.

 

Scottish Action on Mental Health (SAMH) www.samh.org.uk

Provides a wide range of mental health support services and campaigns for positive change in mental health care including barrier free access.

Published: 04/11/2025 15:21