Longitudinal impact of mental health mindsets on self-stigma and well-being among individuals with mental disorders

Abstract

This study examined whether adopting growth mindsets regarding mental health is associated with decreased levels of self-stigma and, consequently, increased levels of well-being among individuals with mental disorders. A total of 235 individuals with mental disorders provided questionnaire data at two time points (i.e., T1 and T2) over the course of one year. Path analyses revealed that growth mindsets at T1 were linked to lower self-stigma and, in turn, better well-being at T2, as indicated by higher levels of positive emotions, engagement, relationships, meaning, and accomplishment. Bootstrap analyses further showed that growth mindsets had indirect effects on promoting well-being through self-stigma reduction. Theoretically, our findings illustrate the beneficial effects of growth mindsets in alleviating self-stigma and enhancing well-being among individuals with mental disorders. The longitudinal nature of these effects underscores that early adoption of growth mindsets can have lasting positive impacts. Practically, our results suggest that fostering growth-oriented beliefs about mental health can effectively reduce self-stigma and promote well-being. Mental health organizations should offer evidence-based interventions and create systemic environments that nurture growth mindsets among individuals with mental disorders.