The Stigma Associated With Mental Illness and How it Affects Adolescents' Desire for Assistance

Abstract

Adolescent mental health issues are becoming more and more of a global concern.  However, the stigma associated with mental illness continues to be a significant obstacle to getting psychological assistance, particularly for young people. Purpose: This study aims to explore the relationship between the level of stigma against mental illness with the tendency of adolescents to seek professional help. Methods: The research method used is descriptive quantitative survey approach. The sample consisted of 75 adolescents aged 15-18 years who were selected purposively. The instrument used was a questionnaire consisting of two scales: the scale of stigma against mental illness and the scale of seeking psychological help. Results: The results showed that there was a significant negative relationship between the level of stigma with the tendency to seek help (r = -0.56, p < 0.01), which means that the higher the level of stigma, the lower the tendency of adolescents to seek professional help. In addition, adolescent girls tend to have less stigma and are more open to seeking help than adolescent boys. Implications: The implications of these findings suggest the importance of mental health education interventions in schools to reduce stigma and improve mental health literacy. The involvement of teachers, counselors, and parents is key in creating an environment that supports teens to speak up and seek help without fear of being judged. Conclusion: In conclusion, stigma around mental illness is a major factor in preventing teenagers from seeking treatment, and lowering stigma is a calculated move to increase access to mental health care.