How creative mediums (e.g., films, storytelling, poetry) reduce stigma?
- whereemotionsflow
- Feb 1
- 2 min read
By: Ffion Collins
Origin of Stigma:
● Societal values often label certain behaviors, traits, or conditions as "normal" or "abnormal”
● Historical misconceptions contribute to enduring stigmas
● Lack of understanding about a condition or identity leads to fear or avoidance
● Internalization of societal stereotypes, leading individuals to feel shame or worthlessness
● Stigmatized individuals face unequal treatment, reduced opportunities, or social exclusion
Raising Awareness:
● Depict mental health conditions authentically
● Helps audiences understand the lived experiences of those affected
● Showcase mental health issues across different:
○ Cultures
○ Genders
○ Ages
● This aids in breaking stereotypes
● Integrates mental health topics into mainstream mediums which makes it less taboo to discuss these issues
● Often educate audiences about the signs and symptoms of mental health disorders
Encourages Conversations:
● Arts bring taboo or underrepresented topics into public discourse, giving people ways to discuss them openly
● Touches on universal emotions like joy, fear, and sadness, making complex issues relatable and easier to discuss
● Helps individuals articulate feelings they may not fully understand
● Give a voice to marginalized communities
● Lead to broader social discussions on issues
How Mental Health is Shown:
● Some genres use mental health as a central theme, often in the form of psychological tension or trauma, which can either educate or perpetuate stereotypes, depending on the portrayal
● Mental health struggles often serve as crucial plot points (to novels and movies), allowing characters to overcome adversity, offering hope, or raising awareness
● Many artists use self-portraiture or visual storytelling to explore personal experiences with mental health.
● Music often serves as a personal outlet for artists to express mental health struggles, and listeners may find solace in songs that echo their own experiences.
1. McBride, K. (2019, July 29). A History of Stigma. BPS.
2. The Power of Art in Social Advocacy: Creative Ways to Promote Awareness - Arch College of Design & Business Blog. (2024, May 25). Arch College of Design & Business Blog.
https://www.archedu.org/blog/the-power-of-art-in-social-advocacy-creative-ways-to-prom ote-awareness/
3. Talley, R. (2023, February 22). The Power of Art: Does Art Really Change the World We Live In? Art Business News.
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