Stigma is when people think badly of you because of something that they see as negative. Sadly, many people have negative attitudes and beliefs about people who have mental illness. Even the term "mental illness" can add to the stigma. Many people prefer the term "mental health condition."

Stigma can lead to discrimination. Discrimination may be obvious and direct, such as someone making a negative comment about your mental health condition or treatment. Or it may be subtle or not meant to hurt. For example, someone might avoid you because the person assumes you aren't stable, or even that you could be violent or dangerous, due to your mental health condition. You may even judge yourself.

Stigma can hurt in these ways:

• It can keep people with mental health conditions from seeking help or treatment.
• It can lessen self-esteem, causing people to believe that they can't succeed or make their life better.
• It may make it difficult for family, friends, co-workers or others to understand the condition.
• It can be harder for people to find jobs, find housing, go to school or do social activities.
• It can lead to bullying, physical violence or harassment.
• Health insurance may not cover treatment for mental health conditions or may only partly cover it.