How to Combat Stigma
Stigma hurts us all and I’ve heard my fair share of stigmatizing comments. This is, unfortunately, especially true while working in the mental health field. Just the other day I overheard an RN say: “just slam them with lithium until they drool”. DEVASTATING. DISGUSTING. UNACCEPTABLE.
Stigma hurts us. We don’t even realize that sometimes we have made stigmatizing comments. I know that I have unintentionally. ighting stigmatizing comments about mental health doesn’t have to mean arguing or exhausting yourself. It’s about protecting truth, dignity, and your own energy.
So here are my thoughts for how to combat stigma when it comes up:
1. Decide if you want to engage
Not every comment deserves your time.
Ask yourself: Is this safe? Do I have the energy? Will this help?
It’s okay to walk away or change the subject. That’s not losing—that’s boundaries.
2. Name the harm (calmly, if possible)
Sometimes stigma continues because it goes unchallenged.
“That comment reinforces a stereotype.”
“That way of talking about mental health can be hurtful.”
“Mental illness isn’t a character flaw.”
You don’t need a perfect speech—simple and clear is enough.
3. Offer accurate information (when it feels useful)
Stigma often comes from misinformation.
“Mental illnesses are real health conditions, not choices.”
“People can struggle and still be capable, caring, and strong.”
“Treatment and support actually work for many people.”
You’re sharing facts, not defending yourself.
4. Use “I” statements
This keeps things grounded and less confrontational.
“I feel uncomfortable when mental health is joked about.”
“I care about this because it affects people I love.”
“I’ve learned that language like that can increase shame.”
5. Set firm boundaries
If someone won’t listen, protecting yourself matters most.
“I’m not okay with jokes like that.”
“I don’t want to continue this conversation.”
“Please don’t talk about mental illness that way around me.”
Boundaries are a response, not an explanation.
6. Model respectful language
How you speak matters—even quietly.
Use person-first language when it feels right (“a person with…”)
Avoid minimizing phrases like “crazy” or “just stress”
Show that compassion and accountability can coexist
7. Remember: stigma thrives in silence, but change is collective
You don’t have to carry this alone.
Support others who speak up
Share reliable resources
Build community with people who get it
8. Be kind to yourself afterward
Challenging stigma can be draining.
Take a breath
Self-validate, self-validate, self-validate
Ground yourself
Remind yourself: Speaking up—or choosing not to—doesn’t define your worth
