What is stigma? 

def:/stigma is a mark of shame. Sometimes, it takes the form of discrimination, as is often experienced by people with mental illness or other disabilities. 

EXAMPLES: 

• pre-judging individuals, or a group based on their look, wardrobe, preconceived notions, idea or rumor

• depriving a person of opportunities because you don't think it's in their best interest 

• illegal discrimination, i.e. sex, race, creed, color or disability

• disparaging remarks made regarding any individual, regardless of mental status 

There are people around the country we have found doing a really great job at reducing stigma, and who have provided us with excellent information as we've worked thru our year long anti-stigma campaign.

They include the award winning producers of West 47th Street, a documentary about the realities of mental illness: http://www.infinitemind.com, and Kathie Snow's guide to People First Language and her website and newsletter which can be found at: http://www.disabilityisnatural.com 

If your school, group, church or community organization would like a speaker to address any aspect of mental health please contact us for a list of speakers and topics: info@babha.org or call (989) 895-2344.

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Bay Arenac Behavioral Health
201 Mulholland · Bay City, Michigan 48708
Ph: (989) 895-2300