The Stigma of Mental Illness   by Doctor Lisa Alloju

in Health / Mental Health    (submitted 2010-07-21)

Why is mental illness still stigmatized in our society? Dr. Lisa Alloju, a psychiatrist practicing in Fort Worth, Texas says, "Unfortunately, despite all the medical advances of today's society, mental illness is still viewed as something shameful. Because of this, many people who really need psychiatric help are not getting it. The belief that the mentally ill are the misfits of society must end."



Mental Disorders and Lack of Psychiatric Treatment



According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), one out of four adults, or approximately 26.2 percent of the adult population in the United States suffers from mental illness. That is close to 58 million people. However, it is estimated that two thirds of these people do not seek treatment.

"It is a great loss to society, and a waste of human potential for people not to get the treatment they need," said Dr. Alljou. "So many mental disorders have an organic cause, like heart disease or cancer, and can be treated with medication.



Why the Stigma of Mental Illness is Alive and Well



There are several reasons why the stigma of mental illness still exists in contemporary society. Attitudes develop early on and without proper education, these attitudes are very difficult to change. It's not only society that maintains prejudicial views against the mentally ill. These views can extend to the families of the victim, the victim, and even the medical profession.

"It's very difficult to shake the notion that you are of lesser value as a human being if you have a mental illness," said Dr. Alljou. "It's a vicious cycle. People will avoid the mentally ill to avoid the stigma spreading to them by association. Sadly, there is also the labeling of the mentally ill as bizarre, unstable, unpredictable, dangerous, lazy, and emotionally weak."

The disabled person, who already believes mental illness is a stigma, is in the worst position of all to try and fight society's attitudes. The ultimate consequences of lack of treatment can be tragic. Many see no way out of their dilemma and commit suicide out of despair and hopelessness.



What can be done to change the Perception of Mental Illness?



According to Dr. Alljou, "The key to eliminating the stigma of mental illness is education. The public and even medical professionals need to treat mental illness no differently than any other disease."



For further information on psychiatric treatment options for mental and emotional problems, ccontact Dr. Lisa Alloju.

About the Author

Doctor Lisa Alloju is one among of several Forth Worth Doctors that specializes in adult psychiatry. She completed Psychiatry Residency training at John Peter Smith Hospital in Fort Worth in 2002. While in residency, she was Assistant Chief Psychiatry Resident in 1999, and in 2002 was awarded Pfizer "Resident of the Year."