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Fight The Stigma About Mental Illness

Date: 10/04/18

Mental illness is not rare. There are millions of Americans living with a mental health condition. But even though one in five people are affected by a mental health condition, there are still many people who are afraid to seek help or treatment, or do not understand mental illness, according to the National Association for Mental Illness, or NAMI.    

This fear or lack of understanding about mental health conditions is called ‘stigma.’ (Click here to take a quiz from NAMI to see if you have a stigma about mental illness.) This stigma can be very harmful. Effects of the stigma about mental illness may include:

  • Discrimination
  • Bullying or physical violence
  • Reluctance to seek help
  • Fewer opportunities for work or education

If you have been diagnosed with a mental health condition, there are ways to fight stigma:

1.    Get treatment. Don’t be afraid to get the care you need to be healthier. Getting the right treatment can help reduce the symptoms of your condition. Be open with your doctors about your symptoms and your healthcare needs.

2.    Don’t be ashamed. A mental health condition is nothing to be ashamed about. Learn as much as you can about your condition and educate others about it. Be an advocate for yourself and for others who have similar conditions, and help others become more informed about mental health.

3.    Join a support group. Sharing your experiences with others can be helpful for you and for others who have mental health conditions. Support groups can be found online and in your local community.

4.    Find out what resources are available to you. Talk to your healthcare provider about your condition and ask for recommendations. Call your health insurance plan and ask about any member programs or benefits that can help you. Knowing what is available to you can help you manage your condition in the healthiest way possible.

We’re here to help our members get the care they need.

Louisiana Healthcare Connections believes in partnering with our members to help them get the care they need – and that includes care for behavioral health conditions. If you are a Louisiana Healthcare Connections member and would like to know more about our benefits and programs for members with behavioral health needs, please call us at 1-866-595-8133, Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., or click here.

Remember: You can get help right away if you are having a mental health problem or a crisis. Call our 24/7 Crisis Hotline to speak with a licensed mental health counselor at 1-844-677-7553 (Hearing Loss: 711).

Be sure to also check out these articles on our website:

Want to learn more about fighting stigma about mental health conditions?

  • Call the NAMI Helpline: 1-800-950-6264
  • Find resources here in Louisiana through NAMI Louisiana: www.namilouisiana.org
  • Take a free online mental health screening exam from Mental Health America: Click here