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BMC Public Health
Published in: BMC Public Health 1/2009

Open Access 01-12-2009 | Research article

Exploring the nature of stigmatising beliefs about depression and help-seeking: Implications for reducing stigma

Authors: Lisa J Barney, Kathleen M Griffiths, Helen Christensen, Anthony F Jorm

Published in: BMC Public Health | Issue 1/2009

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Abstract

Background

In-depth and structured evaluation of the stigma associated with depression has been lacking. This study aimed to inform the design of interventions to reduce stigma by systematically investigating community perceptions of beliefs about depression according to theorised dimensional components of stigma.

Methods

Focus group discussions were held with a total of 23 adults with personal experience of depression. The discussions were taped, transcribed and thematically analysed.

Results

Participants typically reported experiencing considerable stigma, particularly that others believe depressed people are responsible for their own condition, are undesirable to be around, and may be a threat. Participants expressed particular concerns about help-seeking in the workplace and from mental health professionals.

Conclusion

Findings indicate that interventions to reduce the stigma of depression should target attributions of blame; reduce avoidance of depressed people; label depression as a 'health condition' rather than 'mental illness'; and improve responses of help-sources (i.e. via informing professionals of client fears).
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Metadata
Title
Exploring the nature of stigmatising beliefs about depression and help-seeking: Implications for reducing stigma
Authors
Lisa J Barney
Kathleen M Griffiths
Helen Christensen
Anthony F Jorm
Publication date
01-12-2009
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
BMC Public Health / Issue 1/2009
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2458
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2458-9-61

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