I Wish I’d Been Diagnosed with Cancer: The Stigma of Mental Health

Abstract

The author explores how stigma from having a mental health diagnosis can impact the person and those around them. Through both personal and historical contexts, the author examines the effects of social rejection on individuals, families, work opportunities, and personal relationships. There is a clear need for a shift towards a more compassionate and understanding approach to mental health. Dodds argues that open discussions can encourage people to seek help and improve treatment.