O estigma no processo de doença mental

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the literature on stigma and its impact on mental health. A non-systematic literature review was performed using the descriptors: (psychophobia) OR (stigma) AND (treatment) OR (psychological treatment). Articles on stigma and mental health were selected, in Portuguese and English, without limitation of publication period. The information was divided into four sections: intrapersonal stigma, interpersonal stigma, professional stigma and structural stigma. Results show that stereotypes, prejudices and discrimination occur at all levels of analysis, and are often associated with worse prognoses. A theoretical model was proposed to understand the relationship between mental health literacy, stigma, and its negative consequences. In conclusion, these results may contribute to strengthening evidence of the impact of stigma on mental health, and help future research on the mechanisms of maintenance and propagation of stigma in mental health.