Question

Why are negative attitudes or stereotypes associated with mental illness but not with physical illness? What are some stereotypes (positive and/or negative) associated with mental illness (be sure to provide the mental disorder for the stereotype you are using)? What could you do as an individual to help combat negative stereotypes in mental illness?

Answer 1

Negative attitudes or stereotypes have been related/associated with mental illness but not physical illness because

• Physical illness has always been promoted in history. The doctors and medical professionals regarded the biological basis for any illness thus physical illness got promoted.
• In history, mental illness was given negative attributes like being possessed, spirits, exorcism, witch hunting, etc
• Many mental illnesses make behaviors deviant from social norms thus people develop negative attitudes towards it.
• People who are mentally ill find it difficult/problematic to carry out daily activities, show up dangerous behaviors, and requires constant care.
• The major issue is being away from normal. If something is away from normal then it gets highlighted negatively.

Some stereotypes associated with mental illness are

• People are insane and dangerous to society. This is usually attributed to schizophrenics and antisocial personality disorder.
• There is no condition like depression. People just overdo their feelings of sadness.
• People with mental retardation cannot do anything in life.
• People with mental illness are a burden to society as they are of no use and they require constant care.  
• People with mental illness cannot excel in academics. This is specially related to various childhood disorders like ADHD, autism, SAD, etc

To combat this issue

• Use various multimedia platforms to share stories of bullying and how hm much trauma mentally ill people go through
• Spread awareness about various mental health issues and how they are not that abnormal as much it is perceived.
• Workshops, conferences, and seminars that not only spread awareness but increases interaction between mentally ill and normal people.  
• Inclusions from the start. Child with disabilities or any childhood disorder should have an inclusive environment at home, society, and school.