Speak up
People with mental health issues can sometimes be treated like they don’t belong or need to be avoided. They can also face discrimination. This can trigger feelings of shame, helplessness, loneliness, and anger and lead to a spiral of exclusion and withdrawal.
We need to work together to reduce stigma and discrimination around mental health issues.
By increasing understanding, challenging misconceptions and supporting one another, everyone can play their part. Because we are #InThisTogether.
It’s more common than you think
What the EU is doing?
The EU’s comprehensive approach to mental health puts mental health on par with physical health, as part of a strong European Health Union.
Through the flagship on tackling stigma, the EU is investing EUR 18 million to support EU countries and to help implement project to break through stigma and address discrimination, ensure social inclusion and protect the rights of patients.
Words matter
When it comes to mental health and mental ill health, the words we use matter. The way we talk about mental health and people with lived experience can sometimes reinforce negative stereotypes or be stigmatising, without us even realising it.
- Watch the recording of our webinar for the media
- World Health Organisation toolkit on stigma and discrimination
- Explore the Mental Health Europe Glossary and Words Matter Campaign
