[Hope for a future with less psychiatric stigma].

Abstract

Background: Psychiatric stigma is a destructive and complex social phenomenon that hinders patients with a mental vulnerability from participating and seeking help.

Aim: Exploring possible arguments for a decreasing negative impact of stigma in healthcare, in the media, and among young people.

Method: Discussion of relevant literature and initiatives.

Results: Integrated somatic-psychological healthcare, providing accurate information about mental health issues and advice on empathetic connection to journalists, and the use of social media by young people are successful strategies to address stigma.

Conclusion: Although the negative impact of stigma is still palpable and requires vigilance, there are positive signs of reduced influence that may give rise to hope.