MENTAL HEALTH STIGMA: AN EXPLORATION OF CERTAIN IRISH SERVICE USERS’ EXPERIENCES AND COPING PROCESSES

Lucy Smith, Eric Byrnes, Rachel Glennon

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    Abstract

    Background: Previous research indicates that those with mental health difficulties can experience stigma as a result of their diagnosis. The extent to which this affects the individual may depend partly on their coping processes. The current study aimed to contribute to the limited existing research within Ireland by exploring stigma experiences and coping processes among mental health service users. Method: Participants were selected from a cohort of service users attending a secondary mental health care service. Two focus groups were conducted (N= 10), exploring mental health stigma and coping processes. The data were transcribed and subjected to thematic analysis.1 Results: Three core themes were identified. These included: stigma experiences; negative implications of experiences; and coping. Subthemes included: externalised stigma; institutional stigma; internalised stigma; loss; safety behaviours; wellness and recovery; and the need for mental health education. Conclusion: Participants reported experiencing stigma at an interpersonal, community, and institutional level which contributed to internalised stigma and a sense of loss. Participants developed safety behaviours as a means of coping. They highlighted self-acceptance as an important coping factor. They also suggested the need for more comprehensive mental health education in Ireland.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)52-65
    Number of pages14
    JournalClinical Psychology Today
    Volume4
    Issue number1
    Publication statusPublished - Jul 2020

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