Stigma of Mental Illness 1.

Health Assessment
Stigma of Mental Illness in Asian Culture and American Culture
Nicole Herrin
CSUCI HLTH 301
Blair Barker
July 3, 2022
Stigma of Mental Illness 2.

Mental illness is a global health crisis. Although mental health has been prevalent since very early times,

it was not acknowledged or studied heavily until the 19th century. According to the World Health Organization,

mental health conditions have increased by 13% over the past decade. Despite widespread implications the

nature of psychiatric stigma is poorly studied (Hong 1996). Mental illness can present in many forms,

anywhere from generalized anxiety disorders to more severe psychotic disorders including Schizophrenia. Such

disorders effect both children and adults worldwide. Although, talk therapy, group support and psychiatric

treatments are available many are discouraged by the stigma that surrounds these illnesses keeping them from

seeking help. A stigma can be defined a sign of disgrace or discredit which sets a person apart from others and

has become a red flag for adverse experiences (Byrne, 2000). Simply, a stigma is individual perceptions, beliefs

and attitudes about another individual or a topic. People who are stigmatized are commonly stereotyped,

discriminated against and typically feared in society. Most often people with mental illness are assumed to be

violent and very disturbed. The public stigma surrounding mental illness is similar cross-culturally however, the

acceptance of seeking professional treatment widely differs among cultures. To explore these differences, I am

going to compare cultural outlooks of Asian and American culture with regards to acceptable management of

these disorders.

Public stigma surrounding mental health amongst Asian culture and American culture is similar.

However, response to treatment varies dramatically based on cultural beliefs. In Asian culture, there is a lack of

mind-body distinction this results physical pain rather than mental manifestations which impacts help-seeking

behavior (Hong, 1996). There is belief that mental illness not only effects the patient but also the family as a
 Stigma of Mental Illness 3.

whole and is considered severe. In Asian culture emotions and mental disorders are considered

unhealthy, shameful, psychological weaknesses, punishment from ancestors and violent. These beliefs with lack

of understanding of mental disorders psychiatric treatment is delayed as long as possible. Attitudes and

awareness often include people in power which dictates funding for psychiatric care. In Asian cultures there is

a more holistic approach using herbs, special diets and traditional medicines (Hong, 1996). Although, stigma

surrounding mental disorders still causes discrimination, reduced autonomy and segregation amongst American

culture. The American public holds more positive attitudes around seeking mental health treatment (Parcesepe

et al, 2012).