“It Makes Them Want to Suffer in Silence Rather Than Risk Facing Ridicule”: Youth Perspectives on Mental Health Stigma

Abstract

The study aims to understand youth perspectives on mental health stigma to inform anti-stigma and help-seeking interventions. Thematic analysis revealed four key themes: misinformation and ignorance about mental health, the normalization of mental health discussions, the impact of judgment and stigma from caregivers, and the responsibilities of adults in reducing mental health stigma. The study builds on existing research on mental health stigma, help-seeking behaviors, and the impact of caregiver reactions on youth’s access to mental health services. It also highlights the need for interventions targeting both youth and caregivers to reduce stigma effectively.

Background

Studies indicate that a significant proportion of adolescents experience mental health issues, with estimates showing high rates of persistent feelings of sadness, major depressive episodes, anxiety disorders, and suicidal ideation Mental health distress during adolescence can significantly impact daily functioning, relationships, physical health, and academic performance, affecting individuals into adulthood. Despite the importance of early intervention, many adolescents have unmet mental health needs, with only about half of youth with mental health concerns receiving treatment. Mental health stigma is identified as a prominent barrier to seeking help among young people Mental health stigma is categorized into:personal stigma (individual stereotypes and discrimination) and perceived stigma (perceptions of others’ stereotypes and discriminatory behavior).

Among adolescents, perceived stigma is a stronger predictor of help-seeking behaviors than personal stigma. In fact, adolescents are particularly vulnerable to mental health stigma due to identity consolidation, autonomy-seeking, and peer perceptions during adolescence. Perceived parental stigma can also impact youth’s access to mental health services, with some adolescents avoiding seeking help to prevent parental disapproval or anger. Moreover, research shows that male youth report higher levels of personal and perceived mental health stigma than female peers. Additionally, there are higher levels of mental health stigma among Asian/Asian American, Latinx American, and Black/African American populations compared to White population.

Sadly, mental health stigma can lead to decreased social interactions, reduced self-esteem, and lower likelihood of seeking help for mental health problems among young people

Methods

Data were collected through a national text message survey of youth aged 14 to 24. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes related to youth perspectives on mental health stigma.

Results

• Theme 1: Misinformation and Ignorance: Youth expressed a desire for better education about mental health and the normalization of mental health discussions.
• Theme 2: Normalization of Mental Health Discussions: Participants emphasized the importance of open conversations about mental health to reduce stigma.
• Theme 3: Impact of Caregiver Reactions: The study highlighted how caregiver reactions can influence youth’s access to mental health services.
• Theme 4: Responsibilities of Adults: Participants recognized the role of adults in increasing accessibility and affordability of mental health services.

Discussion

The findings underscore the importance of creating a supportive environment for youth to discuss mental health openly. It also emphasizes the need for interventions targeting caregivers to facilitate better access to mental health services for youth. Caring adults can play a crucial role in reducing mental health stigma by:

• Modeling open conversations about mental health.
• Advocating for increased accessibility and affordability of mental health services.
• Recognizing the impact of their reactions on youth’s willingness to seek help.