Breaking the Silence: Addressing Stigmas Around Mental Health

It's Therapy Thursday, and Dr. Brenda Lloyd-Jones from the University of Oklahoma is back to address your questions.

This week, Jenny asks about the continued stigmas around mental health and depression.

" When I shared my mental health struggle, a relative admitted to experiencing depression also, but wouldn’t discuss it with the family. Why does this kind of secrecy around mental health still persist?"

Breaking the Silence Around Mental Health

Despite growing awareness of health-related issues, mental health remains a topic many people avoid discussing openly.

Dr. Brenda Lloyd-Jones says stigma continues to prevent individuals from seeking the help they need, often due to fear of judgment or being treated differently by others.

"The World Health Organization indicates that nearly two-thirds of people with mental concerns, mental health concerns never seek professional help," said Lloyd-Jones. "Well, it tends to be because they feel as though they will be judged or rejected, and consequently, they keep it silent, they keep it close to the vest."

Changing the Conversation

Dr. Lloyd-Jones said it is important to normalize discussions about emotional well-being in the same way we talk about physical health. For many, especially across generations, staying silent feels safer than being perceived as “othered” within their own families.

She encourages trying to foster a culture of openness, where people feel safe discussing their mental health.

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