How to reduce stigma and discrimination when you have a mental health diagnosis:
- Have the knowledge that a lot of stigmas that we have on mental illness are present happening. Have an awareness of your mental health diagnosis. Educate yourself about the diagnosis. Learn to advocate for yourself.
- Be Kind to Yourself
- Be aware of your negative self-talk that arises.
- You can talk to yourself and verbalize these positive affirmations.
- You can put sticky notes to put on the mirror as you look at yourself in the morning
- or write on a whiteboard to remind yourself that your past experiences are valid.
- No one should negate your experiences. No one should discredit your past.
- Practice self-care. Sometimes due to our past experiences, we forget about ourselves. Self-care is very important and critical to healing.
- Make time for yourself
- Learn about having boundaries with your family, work, and social environments
- Establish healthy habits to decrease fatigue.
- Eat a colorful meal with vegetables, fruits, and good protein
- Find a work and life balance
- Increase your physical activity daily by walking in nature, hiking, dancing
- Use positive coping mechanisms when solving your problems
- Meditate to feel peace and calm
- Use your spirituality to focus and recharge
- Find your purpose in life
- Use your strengths and skills
- Find the passion that drives you to make yourself and your community better
- Realize your purpose
- Make an impact in your community
- Contact authorities if you feel that you are being discriminated against. It is critical that you
Contact the law if your rights are violated. Contact the Depart of Justice, and the police and be aware of the rules with regards to the Americans with Disabilities Act.
