Perhaps the most widely embraced priority among mental-health policymakers is that of reducing "stigma," or the mark of shame commonly associated with mental illness. Mental-health advocates blame stigma for a variety of challenges faced by mentally ill individuals, and argue that this prejudice is uniquely objectionable because, unlike discrimination against racial minorities, it is often overt. Yet while opposition to stigma is commonplace, it is worthwhile to assess its role and influence, and, even assuming it could be eradicated, consider what tradeoffs that might entail.
In assessing stigma's effects, mental-health advocates point out several obvious evils. Patrick Corrigan, a clinical psychologist who recently co-authored a lengthy government report on the subject, put stigma "in the same category as racism and sexism," arguing that it "permeates all of society and affects people at all levels." For example, a sense of shame can exacerbate the struggles of mentally ill people by making them reluctant to access programs and resources that might help them. Stigma can also contribute to mentally ill individuals being shunned or ostracized, thereby restricting their economic and social opportunities. It can be extremely challenging for people struggling with mental illness to find housing or a good job.
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