Anti-stigma initiatives

Service users often identify stigma as one of the most difficult aspects of dealing with mental illness, leading to distress, anxiety, isolation and fear. Stigma is a barrier to people seeking help and to understanding mental health problems. We are committed to actively promoting the understanding and de-stigmatisation of mental illness both locally and nationally.

Stigma is the use of negative labels to identify people with mental health problems. It has its roots in fear and misunderstanding. Many people hold negative opinions towards people with mental health problems because they do not understand the issues involved and because they are relying on myths and misconceptions. The Hospital is committed to ensuring that people with mental health difficulties must enjoy the same rights on an equal basis with everyone without discrimination.

St. Patrick’s has an active partner of the See Change campaign, a national alliance of organisations working together to bring about positive change in public attitudes and behaviour towards people with mental health problems. Part of the See Change campaign included a series of evening public meetings around the country at which our CEO Paul Gilligan was a regular keynote speaker.

Our own research on the issue of the stigma of mental health revealed some disturbing attitudes and perceptions among the general public, a factor which can cause embarrassment and shame and a reluctance to seek the appropriate supports. To address this issue and increase awareness of mental health, we produce and distribute information leaflets on the subject while also using print and broadcast media interviews to advocate on behalf of sufferers.

In addition to these initiatives, our Work Experience & Education programme for Transition year students allows young people to gain work experience in mental health while also providing a platform for education about mental illness and mental health.We believe that this schools based education programme will help create a greater understanding of mental health and mental illness amongst young people, thus combating stigma from a young age.