Mental health has been looked at as a burden throughout many lives of Arab community individuals. Many see mental health as a taboo and something that should not be brought up in a serious manner as some may not understand or see it as a non-existent phenomenon.
The Common Cause of the Stigma
The stigmatization surrounding mental illness is a common reason why those who are struggling are often afraid to seek help. This leads to negative consequences within those individuals and their families and may be seen as an avoidable issue. This stigma feeds off the social construct made to believe that those struggling with their mental health are weak-minded and considered unacceptable, negatively affecting those who are seeking help but are criticized for it.
On the other hand, some families might not condone taking medications or even seeking help, as they believe that it is not needed, which in return can impact an individual negatively and may be considered as abnormal. However, such stigmatization may lead to an individual not being able to get the treatment they need, as it may not be available to them.
The Misconceptions Surrounding Antidepressants
Antidepressants have a history seen as negative, rather than a gateway to help. It is looked at as “the last option” regardless whether a child, parent, or other family member are in need of treatment. It is frowned upon due to the misconceptions that go around surrounding medications. Parents may be afraid or even ashamed of their child getting dependent on it, rather than being helpful to them.
It has become a social construct of uneducated information, choosing to believe only the negative side effects, rather than seeing it as a treatment. This takes a toll on those suffering and those who need medications to regulate their chemical imbalances according to what a psychiatrist prescribes.
Many families see it as something to be ashamed of or something that should be kept a secret. Having such a mindset may affect those around them struggling from their mental health. Not only does this cause damage, but it will not allow those individuals to feel supported. Many of the understanding comes from the lack of information and understanding. It stems from the idea that antidepressants are harmful. Oftentimes, doctors who prescribe antidepressants also advice therapy sessions to follow up on how the patient is reacting to the medication.
Moreover, studies have shown a large amount of Arab youth have adjusted their mental illnesses into their daily lives, which has become a part of them due to the lack of treatment available, seen as something they have to live with and cope accordingly.
To combat the stigma, educate those around you, be it your parents, family, or friends. Spread awareness and positive information, eliminate the misconceptions surrounding getting treatment, and allow those around you to understand that it is widely common and should not be looked at as a burden.