Overcoming Self-Stigma

This year, one of Bell Let’s Talk’s key action pillars is anti-stigma. Stigma refers to a set of negative beliefs, attitudes, and perceptions that society holds about certain groups, behaviours, or conditions. It often leads to discrimination, social exclusion, or prejudice against individuals based on these attributes.

When individuals believe they are being perceived negatively by those around them due to challenges with their mental health, they may begin to turn those negative thoughts and beliefs inward and engage in self-stigma.

What is Self-Stigma?

Self-stigma refers to the internalized shame and negative beliefs people hold about themselves when struggling with mental health challenges. This can prevent individuals from seeking help, sharing their experiences, and embracing their own mental health journey.

Why is Self-Stigma Important to Address?

Individuals with self-stigma may be hesitant to share their mental health struggles or seek support due to the fear of judgment, discrimination, or being perceived as less competent, no matter how troubling their condition may be. These challenges may also disproportionately affect certain marginalized groups, such as people of colour and 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, as these groups experience higher rates of mental health challenges and may also be impacted by internalized oppression, limited representation and visibility of affirming narratives, and other societal and structural factors unique to these groups.

Why is it Important in the Workplace?

This internalized stigma not only impacts individual well-being, but it can also bleed into team dynamics, productivity, and the overall workplace culture. Addressing self-stigma can create work environments that are inclusive, healthy, and most importantly empower employees to prioritize their mental health without fear or shame - where everyone feels valued and supported.

How to Overcome Self-Stigma (for Employees)

1. Challenge Negative Self-Beliefs

• Acknowledge strengths: Reflect on your contributions and skills, and remind yourself that seeking help does not diminish your professional value.

• Reframe your thoughts: Instead of thinking: “I’ll seem weak if I ask for support,” tell yourself: “Acknowledging challenges shows resilience and professionalism.”

2. Build Supportive Workplace Connections

• Be inclusive: Create a positive work environment by being approachable and empathetic.

• Seek mentorship: Build relationships with colleagues or leaders who understand the importance of mental health.

• Participate in group activities: Join workplace wellness programs or social committees to strengthen team connections.

3. Seek Professional Help

• Explore resources: Consider using your EAP for confidential counselling and mental health services. You don’t need to wait until you’re at a breaking point to access this. Oftentimes, it can be beneficial as soon as you start noticing it impacting your daily life.

• Advocate for better access: Join initiatives or campaigns to improve mental health services in your community.

How to Help Others Overcome Self-Stigma (for Managers)

• Engage in team discussions: Advocate for open conversations about mental health during team meetings or workshops.

• Use workplace resources: Take part in mental health initiatives, such as employee assistance programs or wellness activities.

• Educate your team: Share resources and training about mental health awareness to dispel misconceptions.

• Lead by example: Demonstrate openness by prioritizing your own mental health and encouraging others to do the same.

• Be sensitive to others in communications: Focus on others’ needs and consider how your words and actions will impact them before you speak or act.

• Exhibit a willingness to listen first: Plan to listen to the other person without interruption, and practice effective listening skills.

Self-stigma isn’t something easy to overcome, but being aware of it is the first step. This Bell Let’s Talk Day, let’s work towards fostering workplace environments that value mental health and well-being by learning to stop stigmatizing your own experiences or the experiences of others. Reach out to FSEAP for confidential, 24/7 mental health support and resources.