When it comes to behavioral health care, the term “stigma” is often used to describe the shame or embarrassment some people feel about mental illness.
Therefore, addressing stigma is important because the very concept of shame makes it difficult for many individuals with mental illness to seek help.
When we think of a visit to the doctor or a mental health specialist, a common experience emerges.
In the case of the doctor, questions are asked, knees are tapped, hearts are listened to, and height and weight are measured. With a mental health clinician, questions are asked, questions are answered, and a meaningful conversation ensues.
When discussing public health, we often hear the terms “health equity”, “health equality” and “health inequality”, but what do they really mean?
What are the subtle variances in meaning, and why is it important to understand these differences?