In the not-so-distant past, in fact, less than one hundred years, mental health stigma was often in a form that was shrouded in shame and misunderstanding, pushed towards the shadows of society and medical institutions. To even speak about it in public or your very own home was a taboo, in some parts it still is.
However, over the years, there has been a significant transformation in the way mental health is perceived and treated. Today, we are witnessing a groundbreaking shift as society and medical institutions increasingly recognize the importance of mental health on par with physical health. With these newfound gains, there have been a remarkable number of pivotal moments that marked this journey toward a more compassionate and inclusive approach to mental health.
Early Stigmas and Misunderstandings
Throughout history, mental health conditions were often misunderstood and attributed to supernatural or demonic forces. People with mental illnesses were stigmatized, marginalized, and even subjected to cruel and inhumane treatments, and that included commoners and kings alike. During the Middle Ages, those suffering from mental health disorders were often considered possessed and subjected to exorcisms or isolation from society.
Countless Roman Emperors like Caligula, Nero, and Commodus and even European Kings like Charles VI of France and George III of England were all suspected to have mental health problems. Whether it was outrageous things like waging war against your sea God with sea shells as prizes, bouts of extreme violence, or a tendency of mood swings, there is no way a ruler or even a typical human being to behave.
Surely something had to be amiss
Emergence of Mental Health Advocacy
The 18th and 19th centuries saw the emergence of mental health advocacy, driven by prominent figures like Dorothea Dix, Philippe Pinel, and Clifford Beers. They worked tirelessly to improve the conditions of mental health facilities such as various mental asylum or sanatoriums, promote compassionate care, and challenge the prevailing stigma surrounding mental illness.
There have also been many literary novelists too that touch upon the subject of mental health, giving their viewpoint on the issue. A famous example would be Gilman’s the yellow wall paper where the protagonist’s events can be interpreted as mental illness as well as the husband’s dismissals.
Deinstitutionalization and Community Care
In the mid-20th century, the deinstitutionalization movement gained momentum, aiming to move individuals with mental illnesses from large psychiatric institutions to community-based care settings. While this was a step towards destigmatization, it also presented challenges as community care systems struggled to cope with the increased demand for mental health services as well as corruption by the staff. Though the later half of the century were horrible setbacks.
During WW1 and WW2 so many soldiers suffered through PTSD or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder overflowing the trenches they found themselves in with no support and susceptible for life-long trauma. The images from it are gruelingly infamous.
These soldiers had looks that were dubbed the 1000-yard stare or otherwise known as shell shock, colloquially then called battle fatigue. Where one soldier’s body and mind fail them due to constant stress and danger at every turn in a battlefield, essentially shutting down.
During the Italian Campaign, US General Patton visited a hospital with wounded soldiers. Curiously he stopped to one soldier who had no physical injuries. Upon the soldier stating that he had no such injuries, Patton grew irate and slapped him thinking he was a coward who was only there because he was afraid to go to the front lines.
Days later he slapped another soldier for the same reason
That and when Regan continued to repeal the MHSA or the mental health services act, things weren’t exactly going well for the outlook and mental health stigma.
The Influence of Media and Pop Culture
The latter half of the 20th century saw the media and pop culture play a significant role in shaping public perceptions of mental health. Movies, television shows, and books began addressing mental health issues more openly, sparking conversations and creating awareness.
A popular movie with powerful social commentary is “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest”, where it gives a window into the plights that the mentally ill have endured for centuries. That they are human beings despite their disabilities.
Landmark Legislation and Policy Changes
In the 21st century, various countries started implementing landmark legislation and policy changes to address mental health concerns. Laws were enacted to protect the rights of individuals with mental illnesses, ensuring they receive appropriate treatment and support. These changes signaled a significant step forward in the journey toward recognizing mental health on par with physical health.
Growing Scientific Understanding
Advancements in neuroscience and psychological research have played a crucial role in shaping our understanding of mental health conditions. As scientific knowledge expanded, so did the understanding that mental illnesses are real medical conditions, deserving of empathy and evidence-based treatments.
Just because you cannot see a wound doesn’t mean that it isn’t there.
Celebrity Advocacy and Personal Stories
The influence of celebrities and public figures in promoting mental health awareness cannot be underestimated. More and more individuals, including celebrities, have come forward to share their struggles with mental health, reducing the stigma and encouraging others to seek help.
Recently there is a popular genre in the social media TikTok called Traumatok where users would share their past experiences such as their stories and trauma to the rest of the community.
Mental Health in the Workplace
In recent years, workplaces have started acknowledging the importance of mental health for their employees. Companies have introduced mental health programs, counseling services, and flexible work arrangements to support the well-being of their staff.
Companies have been shaping up their mental health programs and now even more so after Covid. A little over 50% of big employers are taking the steps to ensure that their employees have and get the help they need.
Integration of Mental Health in Primary Care
Medical institutions have recognized the interconnectedness of mental and physical health. The integration of mental health services into primary care settings has allowed for early identification and intervention, leading to better outcomes for patients.
There is Still ways to Go Against Mental Health Stigma
While the journey towards recognizing mental health on par with physical health has been a long and challenging one, we have come a long way from the days of unknowing, misunderstanding, and resentment. Today, we see a more compassionate, empathetic, and informed approach to mental health in society and medical institutions. As we move forward, it is crucial to continue challenging stigmas, promoting education, and fostering a culture of understanding and support for those who experience mental health challenges. By working together, we can build a world where mental health is treated with the same seriousness and compassion as physical health or disability, enabling individuals to lead fulfilling and healthy lives.
