Breaking the Stigma: Why

Mental Health Matters

Mental health is essential to overall well-being. Let's explore its impact, the role
of stigma, and how we can promote mental health awareness.

AC by Arshia Chandarki
The Cost of Ignoring Mental Health

Individuals Society Stigma

Untreated mental health issues
can impact one's ability to
work, study, and enjoy life.
Suicide is the second leading
cause of death among young
adults.
Untreated mental health issues
cost the US economy over $200
billion per year in lost
productivity, healthcare, and
criminal justice expenses.
Stigma prevents many people
from seeking help. It's time to
break the silence and end the
shame.
The Signs and Symptoms of Mental Health
Issues
Anxiety Disorders

Excessive fear and worry, panic attacks, restlessness, and difficulty sleeping.

Depression

Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest, energy or appetite, and suicidal thoughts.

Bipolar Disorder

Mood swings, racing thoughts, impulsivity, and high risk-taking behavior.

Schizophrenia

Difficulty distinguishing reality from fantasy, hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thoughts.
The Importance of Early Intervention
and Treatment
Improved Outcomes

Early intervention can lead to better outcomes and reduce the risk of relapse.

Increased Quality of Life

Treatment can help individuals manage symptoms, improve relationships, and pursue their
goals.

Reduced Shame and Stigma

Talking openly about mental health can reduce shame and stigma and encourage others to
seek help.
The Role of Stigma in Mental Health
Causes of Stigma
Stigma is often rooted in fear, lack of
understanding, and stereotypes
perpetuated by the media and society.
1 What is Stigma?
Stigma is a negative attitude or belief
about people with mental health
2 issues that can lead to discrimination
and exclusion.
3 Breaking the Stigma
Breaking the Stigma requires
education, understanding, and
empathy. Let's challenge stigma
whenever we encounter it.
Ways to Promote Mental Health Awareness

Education Self-Care Support

• Provide information • Exercise regularly and • Seek help if you're

on mental health eat a healthy diet experiencing
• Encourage sharing • Reduce the use of • symptoms
Support others who
personal stories drugs and alcohol may be struggling
• Organize mental • Learn relaxation • Encourage access to
health awareness techniques like yoga resources
campaigns and meditation
Resources and Support for Mental Health

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline NAMI

The National Alliance on Mental Health

24/7 free and confidential support for people provides advocacy, education, and support
in distress. Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255). for people living with mental health issues
and their families. Visit nami.org.

The Trevor Project Therapy for Black Girls

A national organization providing crisis An online space for Black women to find
intervention and suicide prevention services culturally sensitive therapists and resources
to LGBTQ+ young people. Visit for mental health and wellness. Visit
TrevorProject.org. TherapyforBlackGirls.com.