Stigma

Stigma is one of the main barriers faced by persons with PD in South Africa today (Mahomed & Stein, 2017) It is a major cause of discrimination and exclusion, affects people’s selfesteem, disrupts relationships and limits people’s ability to socialise (WHO, 2020) Stigma can also prevent people from seeking the help they need. Stigma can lead to lost opportunities with regards to employment and education and can also hinder access to basic human rights and healthcare (Davies et. al 2021)

The American Psychiatric Association (2020) outlines other harmful effects of stigma, including:

Reluctance to seek help or treatment

People being less likely to adhere to treatment

Social isolation

Lack of understanding by family, friends, co-workers, or others

Fewer opportunities for work, school or social activities

Trouble finding housing

Bullying, physical violence or harassment

Health insurance that doesn't adequately cover the treatment of mental illness

The belief that the person will never succeed at certain challenges or that they can't improve their situation