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 language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 52-65 |
Number of pages | 14 |
Journal | Clinical Psychology Today |
Volume | 4 |
Issue number | 1 |
Publication status | Published - Jul 2020 |