Silence, Shame, and Stigma in Mental Health: The Path to New Life
April 2023
“You have searched me, Lord, and you know me.” — Psalm 139:1 (NIV)
Mental health issues affect millions of people worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 450 million people suffer from some form of mental or neurological disorder.1 Despite this staggering number, there is still a great deal of silence, shame, and stigma surrounding mental health, often preventing people from seeking the help they need.
Often in the Church, there can be an additional layer of complexity regarding mental health....many feel that their faith should be enough to overcome their struggles, and seeking help from a mental health professional is a sign of weakness or a lack of faith.
As a result, many people feel they cannot speak openly about their struggles because of the stigma attached to mental illness or the fear of being judged or ostracized. This silence can lead many to feelings of isolation, shame, and hopelessness, exacerbating emotional issues. In addition, many feel that their struggles are personal failures or they are somehow to be blamed for their condition. Compounding shame can lead to feelings of worthlessness and self-doubt, making it even harder to seek help.
Stigma is, perhaps, the most significant barrier to seeking help for mental health issues. The stigma attached to mental illness can lead to discrimination, exclusion, and even violence. This can make it extremely difficult for people to seek help, particularly in communities where mental health is not well understood or seeking help is seen as a sign of weakness.
Taking a step by asking for and seeking help is often the gateway to a new day and life. While the road to recovery can be long and difficult, it does not need to be traveled alone. God has equipped you for such a time as this.
Reference
1. World Health Organization. (n.d.). The World Health Report 2001: Mental disorders affect one in four people. Retrieved April 19, 2023, from WHO.int.
