Contributing Factors of Mental Illness and How They affect Society

Contributing Factors of Mental Illness and How They affect Society
Elizabeth Simpson
PSYC 4100 Online Capstone PSYC Science
CRN 52489 Section 01
October 28, 2021

Abstract

Factors associated with influences of mental illness on society may be considered in two aspects: affecting community through individuals suffering from mental illnesses and affecting individuals’ mental health through the community. Thus, the mental health of the population and the successful development of society are interconnected and interdependent values. This paper focuses on the identification and analysis of the significant effects that mental illness disorders may cause on society. The key objective of the study is to provide consideration of ethical, social, and cultural principles of healthcare and society regarding people with mental disabilities. The factors associated with society’s influence on mental health disorders will be discussed to a deeper understanding of the problem and ways to prevent negative outcomes of mental disorders for people and society.

Problem Statement

The development and progression of mental illness has been influenced by factors such as humanitarian crisis and deinstitutionalization within society and associated with unfavorable external conditions. Scientific research has revealed significant factors and patterns in the formation of stigmatization such as discrimination and social isolation. Findings of the study relate to the importance of making social justice and equity for the global community. Often, the people suffering from mental disorders experience discrimination and social exclusion in the work and family environment. The stigmatization of people with mental disorders actualizes the problems associated with their socialization that negatively affects the quality of their life in general.

Introduction
More than half of mentally ill people do not receive the necessary help for their disorders. In many cases, people delay or avoid seeking treatment in fear of losing their livelihoods and jobs or being treated differently. Prejudice, discrimination, and stigma against mentally ill people is a very common problem. Stigma against mentally ill people can be obvious or subtle. Regardless of the magnitude, stigma can lead to serious harm for the victim (Stuart, 2016). People with mental illness are discriminated against and marginalized in numerous ways.
In many cases, stigma originates from a lack of proper understanding or due to fear. In addition, the media’s misleading or inaccurate portrayal of mental illness often contributes to factors that create stigma. Public stigma involves discriminatory or negative attitudes that people have regarding mental illness. Self-stigma reflects on the negative attitudes such as internalized shame held by mentally ill people about their conditions (Stuart, 2016). Regarding institutional stigma, it is systemic and involves policies of public organizations that involuntarily or purposefully limit the opportunities for individuals diagnosed with mental illness.

Stigma affects the individuals who have mental illness, their families and friends who love and support them. Stigma is a significant concern among ethnic and racial communities. It can be a huge barrier to individuals across cultures and communities accessing mental health services and help (Ottewell, 2016). For instance, in some Asian cultures, seeking professional help in mental health may oppose the cultural values that call for a strong family, bring shame, and emotional restraint. In other groups, such as African American cultures, people may not trust the mental healthcare system, preventing people from seeking help.