Accordingly, three types of stigma have been identified: a. Public stigma: negative or discriminatory attitudes that others have about mental illness. b. Self-stigma: negative attitudes that people with mental illness have about their own condition. c. Institutional stigma: refers to policies of governments and private organizations that intentionally or unintentionally limit opportunities for persons with mental illness. Stigma serves as a significant barrier to access to healthcare, particularly in Asian cultures where seeking professional help runs contrary to time-held values of strong family ties, avoiding shame and emotional restraint (APA). 2. What are some of the negative things you have heard about people with mental illness? Some of the answers may have been mentioned in the preceding activity. Training Module on the Right to Mental Health in the Academe Stigma is usually brought about by a lack of awareness. How persons with mental illness are portrayed in the media also plays a pivotal role in the public’s perception of mental health. 3. What are some of the positive things you have heard about people with mental illness? Participants may have difficulty answering this question. Some people say those with mental illness are creative, such as artists and writers. 4. How does stigma affect people with mental illness? (APA) • Reluctance to seek help or treatment and less likely to continue with treatment • Social isolation • Lack of understanding by family, friends, coworkers, or others • Fewer opportunities for work, school or social activities or trouble finding housing • Bullying, physical violence or harassment • Health insurance that doesn’t adequately cover mental illness treatment • The belief that one will never succeed at certain challenges or that one can’t improve one’s situation 6