Stigma’s Influence on Mental Health Treatment in China

Mental health problems are one of the leading causes of disability in China. Stigma acts as a barrier to mental health treatment. This research explores the influence of self-stigma and public stigma toward mental health care among Chinese adults. The study investigated which participant characteristics affect stigma toward mental health treatment, and whether participant exposure to mental health problems moderates the relationship between participant characteristics and stigma toward mental health. Five hundred participants were recruited in public areas throughout Shanghai to participate in a community survey comprised of demographic questions and standardized instruments. Findings indicate that knowing someone with a mental health problem moderates the relationship between participant characteristics (e.g., age, gender, employment status) and stigma. Also, this study found that gender and knowing someone with a mental health problem influence public stigma. Results support the inclusion of family in the treatment of mental illness at a clinical practice level in China and informs anti-stigma interventions and public awareness campaigns at a policy level.