It’s Okay Not to Be Okay: Breaking the Mental Health Stigma- Lana Hadawey

We often find ourselves learning about new mental health conditions and how they develop, but no one seems to really talk about how to approach mental health in a realistic form.

Here I want to talk about the true meaning of mental health and ensure to enforce the reminder no one is alone- ever.

Why is mental health important?

Mental health affects how we think, feel, and act — it’s just as vital as physical health.

Everyone has mental health; it’s part of being human, not a sign of weakness.

According to the World Health Organization, about 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health issue at some point in their life.

Despite being common, many people still avoid talking about it or seeking help because of stigma.

Mental Health Week is a time to raise awareness, promote empathy, and create open conversations.

What Is Mental Health Stigma?

Stigma means negative attitudes, beliefs, and stereotypes about mental illness that lead to discrimination.

It’s what makes people hide their struggles out of fear of judgment.

There are two main types of stigma:

Public stigma: how society labels or stereotypes people with mental illness for example: calling someone “crazy” or assuming they’re unstable.

Self-stigma: when a person internalizes shame and feels “less than” because of their condition for example: thinking “I’m weak for feeling anxious.”

• Both types can prevent people from reaching out for help or talking about what they’re going through.

Where Does the Stigma Come From?

Stigma can come from many different scenarios such as the following:

• Cultural beliefs: In some cultures, mental illness is seen as a personal flaw or something to hide.

• Media portrayals: Movies and news often show people with mental illness as dangerous or unpredictable, reinforcing fear and misunderstanding.

• Lack of education: Many people still don’t know what mental health conditions really are or how common they can be.

• Fear of the unknown: Because we can’t “see” mental illness like a physical wound, people sometimes dismiss it as “not real.”

• Language: Words like “psycho,” “maniac,” or “attention seeker” can harm and shame others, even when said jokingly.

The Real Impact of Stigma

Stigma can prevent others from help-seeking: People delay getting treatment because they’re afraid of being judged.

Isolation can occur when people feel they can’t talk about how they feel, they pull away from others.

As well as emotional distress: Shame and guilt worsen symptoms, leading to a vicious cycle.

Workplace and school effects take on a role, stigma can make it harder for people to ask for accommodations or take mental health days.

Serious consequences: In some cases, stigma contributes to suicidal thoughts or self-harm because people feel trapped and alone.

How We Can Break the Stigma

1. Start honest conversations: Talking about mental health openly makes it normal, not taboo.

2. Use kind, non-judgmental language: Instead of saying “crazy,” say “someone living with anxiety/depression.”

3. Educate yourself and others: Learn about common conditions like depression, anxiety, and OCD — and share accurate information.

4. Encourage seeking help: Remind people that getting help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

5. Normalize therapy: Going to therapy should be as normal as going to the doctor for a check-up.

6. Be a good listener: Sometimes, simply saying “I’m here for you” can make a huge difference.

7. Challenge stereotypes: When you hear misinformation, correct it respectfully.

8. Use social media for good: Share positive posts, awareness campaigns, and resources.

Your Voice Matters

Mental health stigma won’t disappear overnight — but change starts with awareness and action. Each of us has the power to make talking about mental health normal. Be the person who listens, speaks kindly, and encourages others to reach out. Challenge the myths, share your story, and let others know they’re not alone.

Let us all realise it’s ok to be human.

Thank you all for reading and I hope this helps feel informative about the topic.

Thank you - Lana Hadawey