I just found a great article about stigma: http://www.cnn.com/HEALTH/library/...

Stigma is a mark of disgrace or shame. It has four components:

* Labeling someone with a condition

* Stereotyping people with that condition

* Creating a division - a superior "us" group and a devalued "them" group, resulting in loss of status in the community

* Discriminating against someone on the basis of their label



Here are some ways you can cope with and help end stigma:

* Get appropriate treatment. Don't let the fear or anticipation of being stigmatized prevent you from seeking treatment for your illness. For some people, a specific diagnosis provides relief because it lifts the burden of keeping silent and also underscores that you aren't alone - that many others share your same illness and issues.

* Surround yourself with supportive people. Because stigma can lead to social isolation, it's important to stay in touch with family and friends who are understanding. Isolation can make you feel even worse.

* Make your expectations known. People may not know how to support you, even if they want to help. Offer specific suggestions and remind people of appropriate language.

* Don't equate yourself with your illness. You are not an illness. So instead of saying "I'm bipolar," say "I have bipolar disorder." Instead of calling yourself "a schizophrenic," call yourself "a person with schizophrenia." Don't say you "are depressed." Say you "have depression."

* Share your own experiences. Speaking at events can help instill courage in others facing similar challenges and also educate the public about mental illness. Until you gain confidence, you may want to start at small events, such as talks at a support group or a local chapter of a national advocacy group.

* Monitor the media. If you spot stigmatizing stories, comic strips, movies, television shows or even greeting cards, write letters of protest that identify the problem and offer solutions.

* Join an advocacy group. Some local and national groups have programs to watch for and correct archaic stereotypes, misinformation and disrespectful portrayals of people with mental illnesses.