Lesser-Known Mental Health Conditions Carry Stigma in our Society
Mental health stigma has long silenced open discussions. Progress is pretty evident in technology and its ends like
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The Stigma
Mental health stigma includes negative attitudes and discrimination. Stigma takes different forms. Self-stigma happens when people internalize stereotypes. Social stigma comes from negative views held by others. Structural stigma exists in systemic barriers to care.
Conditions that are less understood face even greater stigma. People may dismiss symptoms or see them as character flaws. Some assume these conditions are exaggerated. This isolates those affected and deepens their struggles. Fear of judgment often stops them from seeking help.
Shedding Light on Lesser-Known Conditions
Many mental health conditions are rarely discussed. Yet, they deeply affect people’s lives. Let’s have a look at some of them.
1. Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs)
BFRBs, like trichotillomania (hair pulling) and dermatillomania (skin picking), are compulsive behaviors. They often leave visible marks on the body. These are not simple bad habits. They are complex disorders linked to anxiety and other mental health issues.
Stigma around BFRBs comes from misconceptions. Many believe people can “just stop” these behaviors. This dismissive view ignores the real struggle. It also adds to feelings of shame. For many, the visible nature of these conditions brings extra challenges. Social interactions and workplaces can feel even more difficult.
2. Cyclothymic Disorder
Cyclothymic disorder is a lesser-known mood disorder. It causes chronic mood swings that don’t meet the criteria for bipolar disorder. People with this condition experience emotional highs and lows. These are often mistaken for personality traits instead of symptoms.
Living with cyclothymic disorder can be challenging. It can disrupt relationships, work, and self-esteem. The unpredictable mood shifts often cause misunderstandings. Others may see individuals as unreliable or overly emotional. Without diagnosis and support, many suffer in silence. They may feel their struggles are not “serious enough” to seek help.
3. Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)
ARFID is more than picky eating. It is a serious eating disorder. It involves a highly restrictive diet due to sensory issues, fear of choking, or a lack of interest in food. Unlike other eating disorders, ARFID is not linked to body image concerns.
ARFID affects both physical health and social life. People may avoid eating with others or struggle to find foods they can eat. Stigma comes from the belief that ARFID is just a choice or a phase. This leads to frustration and feelings of isolation.
4. Persistent Complex Bereavement Disorder (PCBD)
PCBD, also called complicated grief, involves deep and prolonged mourning. It disrupts daily life. While grief is natural, PCBD goes beyond normal bereavement. It includes persistent longing, trouble accepting the loss, and emotional numbness.
Stigma around PCBD comes from pressure to “move on” after a loss. People with PCBD are often seen as overly dramatic or weak. This only adds to their isolation.
The Impact on Daily Life
The stigma around these conditions has serious effects. Socially, people may avoid relationships to escape judgment. Professionally, fear of misunderstanding can stop them from sharing their struggles. This leaves workplace challenges unaddressed. Emotionally, internalized stigma creates self-doubt. It worsens symptoms and delays recovery.
For instance, someone with BFRBs might skip social events to avoid attention to their behaviors or marks. A person with ARFID might feel embarrassed when their eating habits are questioned. This can make them avoid shared meals. Over time, these experiences damage self-confidence and increase loneliness.
Breaking the Cycle of Stigma
To reduce stigma around lesser-known mental health conditions, several steps are needed:
Education and Awareness: Public campaigns, school programs, and workplace training can dispel myths and build understanding.
Inclusive Language: Using respectful, person-first language (e.g., “a person living with trichotillomania” instead of “a hair-puller”) shifts focus to the individual, not the condition.
Community Support: Open conversations and safe spaces allow people to share experiences, reducing isolation and fostering connection.
Accessible Resources: Making mental health resources available and promoting early intervention ensures people get the help they need.
Challenging Stereotypes: Speaking out against harmful stereotypes in media and daily life is key to changing attitudes.
For an Inclusive Society
Mental health stigma is a major barrier to well-being. This is especially true for those with lesser-known conditions. By building awareness and empathy, we can create a more supportive society. Everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, and valued. Breaking the silence is more than kindness—it is a step toward healing and inclusion for all.
