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Review
. 2013 May;103(5):794-800.
doi: 10.2105/AJPH.2012.301037. Epub 2013 Mar 14.

Reducing self-stigma by coming out proud

Affiliations
Review

Reducing self-stigma by coming out proud

Patrick W Corrigan et al. Am J Public Health. 2013 May.

Abstract

Self-stigma has a pernicious effect on the lives of people with mental illness. Although a medical perspective might discourage patients from identifying with their illness, public disclosure may promote empowerment and reduce self-stigma. We reviewed the extensive research that supports this assertion and assessed a program that might diminish stigma's effect by helping some people to disclose to colleagues, neighbors, and others their experiences with mental illness, treatment, and recovery. The program encompasses weighing the costs and benefits of disclosure in deciding whether to come out, considering different strategies for coming out, and obtaining peer support through the disclosure process. This type of program may also pose challenges for public health research.

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References

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Publication types

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