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Small ways to challenge mental health stigma

Stigma can appear in jokes, gossip or assumptions about what a person can do. Changing how we respond in ordinary conversations is one place to begin.

Insights Wellbeing · A short wellbeing guide

Protect a person's privacy

Do not share someone else's diagnosis or therapy history as a story, even when trying to raise awareness. Ask what language they prefer and what they want kept private.

Respond to the behaviour

If a joke feels harmful, a simple response can be enough: I do not think that is a fair way to talk about someone struggling. You do not need to debate every detail of a person's health.

General educational information, not a diagnosis or individual treatment plan. If distress persists or affects daily life, speak with a qualified professional. In immediate danger, contact local emergency services.

Further reading

NHS: Mental wellbeing

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