5 Steps in Dealing with Self Stigma in Mental Illness
We at Defying Mental Illness, describe stigma as the mark of avoidance. Self stigma occurs when that mark of avoidance is turned on self. Self stigma is real. It occurs when people have a negative opinion of themselves. This definitely is counterproductive as inhibits those concerned with seeking help and/or treatment.
Here are a few steps in dealing with self stigma:
#1 The most powerful words you hear are the ones you say to yourself
Rather than say ‘I am bipolar’ or ‘I have bipolar’ why not say ‘I have been diagnosed with bipolar’. It is more of a mouthful but you are communicating something here. Words are important. There is an adage that says that ‘sticks and stones may break our bones but words can’t hurt us’. That is not true. It can take 30 seconds to say something hurtful to someone but a life time to recover from those words.
The Bible teaches us that God created the world with words. We can create our world by changing the way we speak especially concerning ourselves. You are not in denial but when you start saying more positive things about yourself, it will resonate on the outside and people will soon know your stand.
#2 Know you are valuable
When you can say something positive about yourself, you will soon begin to discover your self worth. You will know that you are valuable to this world. You have unique gifts that God has put in you. They may be unearthed but you came into the world with them. Many famous people like Van Gogh, Abraham Lincoln, Isaac Newton, Beethoven, Charles Dickens, to name a few suffered from mental illness. Yet they made valuable contribution to society. Today their names are in the annals of world history.
#3 Surround yourself with the right network
If you associate yourself with people or watch movies that portray mental illness in a stereotypical and stigmatized way, you will soon start thinking the same way towards yourself. The right network is so necessary in defying mental illness. Hang out with people who boost your morale and confidence. This website is a good place to start. There is always good news on this website! We have a growing number of resources to encourage and inspire you carry on. Write in, leave your comments, share your thoughts with us. We are always happy to hear from you.
Read the Bible and see what God says about you. There are numerous lovely things He says. Example, you are the apple of His eye, you are wonderfully made, you have a sound mind… and countless examples. Go on a treasure hunt and find these words. God does not see the negative things that you see. When He sees you, He sees you in His image and likeness. He says we are His masterpiece.
Become a member of a church that encourages you, and join their home groups/cell group. Home groups are wonderful, good therapy and makes a difference. Intimate friendships are formed in these groups. It is difficult not to be compassionate towards those we pray and fellowship with!
4. Find a mentor/coach
Find a mentor or coach like your pastor, vicar or priest or someone who truly believes in you and your more glorious future. One who sees your glass as overflowing. Not half empty or half full even (Your cup runs over – Psalm 23:5)! Many may tell you to lower your expectations; even your health professional may surprise you with statements like this! Well meaning family and friends are not exempt either. Some may tell you that your dreams are bigger than you.
Find someone who can see behind the sickness. One who shares your dreams and aspirations. One who can pray, guide and mentor you. Coach you. Help you get up. Remember, the righteous falls seven times and rises again! (Proverbs 24:16)
5. Don’t avoid treatment
Taking medication, having therapy, is not a sign of weakness, or a lack of faith. Isolation or avoidance of treatment is not the cure for mental illness. Isolation only makes your thoughts wilder which ultimately affects your self esteem even more. It can be easier to flex your faith muscles whilst building your faith when on medication. Medicine is on the side of God which is to heal people. Medical science does not have all the answers certainly, but it can be a vital help in your faith walk.
There is an adage that says you cannot hide smoke. Even if you try and cover smoke, it still manages to seep out. Hiding mental illness will ultimately make you worse rather than better. Eventually that help you avoided will come to you. Sometimes it is not in the manner you would have wished it. If you are not getting medical help, make that step today.
If you are worried you might meet a not so compassionate health professional, pray that God sends you an empathic, understanding one that will make you feel at ease.
Have you been affected by self-stigma? Please share your thoughts on how you dealt with it or your experiences.
About The Author
