Effects of Mental Health Problems on Individuals (OCR GCSE Psychology): Revision Note

Stigma refers to the negative attitudes and beliefs that people hold about mental health problems

• It is a cognitive factor, as it involves how we think about others—often leading to feelings of fear, unease, or prejudice

Psychologists often use self-report methods (such as questionnaires or interviews) to measure people’s attitudes towards mental health

Although understanding and awareness of mental health have improved, stigmatisation still exists and can affect individuals both before and after diagnosis

People showing early symptoms may be labelled as 'weird', 'crazy' or 'attention-seeking'

• These stereotypes can stop individuals from recognising symptoms or seeking help due to fear of judgement

This can lead to discrimination as friends, teachers, or employers may avoid or exclude someone who seems withdrawn, anxious, or unpredictable

• E.g. a teenager showing signs of depression may lose friends because others see them as 'boring' or 'lazy'

This rejection can lead to social isolation, low self-esteem, and a worsening of symptoms

Once diagnosed, stigma can continue or even increase

People with conditions like schizophrenia may be seen as 'violent' or 'dangerous', while those with depression might be seen as 'weak' or 'unreliable'

• These labels can lead to self-stigma, where individuals internalise negative views and begin to believe them

Over time, this can create a self-fulfilling prophecy — the person behaves in line with others’ expectations because they have absorbed those beliefs

• E.g. someone labelled “incapable” might stop applying for jobs or opportunities

Discrimination means mistreating someone based on a perceived difference, such as having (or being thought to have) a mental health problem

• It is a behavioural response that is a consequence of stigma and can occur before or after diagnosis

People who show early signs of mental illness may already be treated differently, even without a formal diagnosis

• E.g. someone experiencing social anxiety may be ignored or excluded at school or work

This unfair treatment can cause emotional distress, lower self-esteem, and worsen symptoms, often delaying help-seeking or diagnosis

Once a person is diagnosed, discrimination may become more explicit and damaging

Employers may assume someone with depression or anxiety cannot handle stress or responsibility

• E.g. Ali's supervisor discourages him from applying for promotion because of his depression—a clear case of workplace discrimination

Family and friends might also withdraw support due to fear, misunderstanding, or stereotypes about mental illness

• This can lead to social exclusion, loss of confidence, and a reduced quality of life

Over time, discrimination reinforces stigma and creates further barriers to recovery, employment, and inclusion