"The impact of stigma can be profound. At a time when people are at their most vulnerable and most in need of help, stigma prevents them from reaching out. This terrible paradox can deepen an illness that is often invisible to others." The National Academy of Medicine defines three primary forms of stigma, each of which can have far-reaching and harmful effects: 💔 Self-stigma occurs when individuals internalize and accept negative stereotypes. It turns a “whole” person into someone who feels “broken.” As one employee told us, “Depression can be a terrible illness. It makes you feel worthless and without a purpose.” 💔 Public stigma (which is sometimes referred to as social stigma) is the negative attitude of society toward a particular group of people. In the case of behavioral-health conditions, it creates an environment in which those with such conditions are discredited, feared, and isolated. As an employee explained, “There is such a stigma against mental-health disorders. But if you don’t talk about it, you suffer alone.” 💔 Structural stigma (including workplace stigma) refers to system-level discrimination—such as cultural norms, institutional practices, and healthcare policies not at parity with other health conditions—that constrains resources and opportunities and therefore impairs well-being. “The number-one challenge I face is finding [healthcare] providers,” one employee told us. “It’s a problem for me, for my wife, and for my kids.” Having bipolar 2 disorder, I've definitely experienced all 3 forms of stigma. Self-stigma has been a huge one for me, and it's something I still notice in myself that comes in the form of self-doubt and imposter syndrome in my personal life and at work: 👉 "Don't accept the promotion/project. It seems stressful, and that could trigger another episode" 👉 "Don't get into the relationship. You'll only ruin it when another episode happens" To push past this self-stigma, I regularly remind myself of all things I've managed to accomplish, and the small wins in between. It reminds me that I am so much more than my condition. Tons more to say about public & structural stigma, but I'm gonna log off and enjoy the rest of my weekend now! 👋 #mentalhealth #mentalhealthstigma #mentalhealthatwork #workplacehealth #workplace