Perceived mental illness stigma and self stigma among persons treated for psychotic disorders

Abstract

Introduction Stigma related to mental health has serious impact on persons suffering from psychiatric disorders and on their families. Self-stigma occurs when people with mental health problems internalize public attitudes, negative beliefs and stereotypes associated with psychiatric disorders. Stigma and self-stigma can affect every aspect of life and result in discrimination, social exclusion, feelings of low self-esteem, shame, guilt, and can postpone seeking help. Objectives To examine perceived stigma and self-stigma of people treated for psychotic disorders. Methods We will include male and female patients older than 18 years of age, diagnosed with psychotic disorders, treated as outpatients. Assessment will include sociodemographic data, Internalized Stigma of Mental Illness Inventory – 9-item Version (ISMI-9) * to measure internalized stigma of mental illness, The perceived devaluation-discrimination (PDD) scale to measure perceived stigma, the World Health Organisation Quality of Life-BREF (WHOQOL-BREF) questionnaire, and Clinical Global Impression Scale (CGI). Results We will analyse differences in ISMI and PDD scales in patients treated for psychotic disorders. Conclusions Understanding self-stigma and societal stigma associated with mental health is crucial in creating programs aimed at well-being of persons treated for psychotic disorders. Disclosure of Interest None Declared