# What is stigma in mental health?

URL: https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/what-is-stigma-in-mental-health
For: Patients | Mental health care | Last reviewed 23 July 2026

**Answer:** Mental health stigma is negative stereotyping, shame, fear or unfair judgement directed at people with mental health difficulties. It can come from the public, from institutions such as workplaces, schools or health services, and from within, when people start to believe negative messages about themselves. Stigma can delay help-seeking, discourage people from speaking up and lead to discrimination. Respectful language, confidential care and accessible services help reduce it.

### Types of stigma

- Public stigma: stereotypes and social rejection.
- Institutional stigma: policies or services that disadvantage people with mental health conditions.
- Self-stigma: coming to believe negative messages about yourself.

### How to reduce stigma

- Use respectful, person-first language and avoid defining people by a diagnosis.
- Protect confidentiality and offer equal, accessible care.
- Involve people with lived experience in designing services.
- Remember that disclosure is personal and should always be voluntary and safe.

> **Important:** Anti-stigma messages should not pressure people to disclose private health information.

> **Important:** If there is immediate danger or a medical emergency, contact emergency services now. In Kenya, call 999, 112 or 911. Outside Kenya, use the emergency number for your location.

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**About Tymira Health:** Tymira Health is a healthcare technology company based in Nairobi, Kenya. It builds Tymira360, a practice management and EHR platform for mental health, physiotherapy and dental providers, clinics, hospitals, NGOs and insurers across Africa.

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