Five harmful effects of stigmatization on the individual, family and treatment strategies.

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Five harmful effects of stigmatization on the individual, family and treatment strategies.

Stigma generally is a mark of disgrace, associated with a particular circumstance, quality or person.

Stigma negatively affects individuals as well as entire families; therefore, it is necessary to understand “family stigma” in order to reduce the social and emotional distress of families suffering from stigma and prevent the resulting avoidance of social support and treatment.

 

Public stigma against family members is a negative attitude by the public which blame family members for a certain state of condition or illness of their relatives.

 

Family stigma can result in the following five; identified to have harmful effects on members or identity of the family.

A.  Feelings of shame, hopelessness and isolation

B.  Reluctance to ask for help or to get treatment

C.  Fewer opportunities for employment or social interaction

D.  Bullying, physical violence or harassment

E.   Self-doubt – the belief that you will never overcome your illness or be able to achieve what you want in life.

 

Effects of stigmatization on prevention and treatment strategies.

Stigma in health care undermines prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and successful health outcomes. Health condition-related stigma is stigma related to living with a specific disease or health condition. Stigma is a damaging social phenomenon.

 

 In the case of people living with various health conditions, stigma has negative effects on health outcomes which includes the following:

1.    Fear of stigma serves as a barrier to use health services

2.    It leads to non-optimal medication adherence

3.    Lower visit to healthcare facilities

4.    Higher depression which can diminish health seeking interest.

5.    Victims of stigma hide their health status which can lead to worsening of the condition and increase infection

6.    Stigma from healthcare personnel discriminate victims of the necessary information and care.

7.    Individuals who are stigmatized are likely to give up on their treatment services.