The stigma of mental disorders: A millennia-long history of social exclusion and prejudices

Wulf Rössler

doi:10.15252/embr.201643041

The stigma of mental disorders: A millennia-long history of social exclusion and prejudices

EMBO Rep. 2016 Sep;17(9):1250-3. doi: 10.15252/embr.201643041. Epub 2016 Jul 28.

Author

Wulf Rössler¹

Affiliation

¹ Zürich University, Zürich, Switzerland Department and Institute of Psychiatry, LIM 27, University of Sao Paulo, Brazil Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité, Berlin, Germany.

Abstract

Persons with mental disorders have been stigmatized for millennia across many cultures and societies, dramatically affecting the sick person's social life and self‐esteem. The most efficient approach used to help overcome prejudices against patients with mental disorders is through direct contact and the involvement of trusted persons.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Attitude of Health Personnel
Humans
Mental Disorders / psychology*
Mental Disorders / therapy
Prejudice*
Psychological Distance*
Social Stigma*