Stop using the word “stigma” when you mean “ignorance”

I do not entirely discount the following statement from the Aug. 10 Wellness article, “Thy Rod and Thy Staff: “Due to the stigma that still exists concerning mental illness …” I object to the use of the word stigma. Prejudice exists. Ignorance exists.

To proclaim a "stigma" is common; to do so disguises prejudices one cares not to disclose.

The usage you facilitated to print is common as an utterance, but uncommon as a reality. It is not common practice; we are far less medieval than it suggests.

Now, to address the reality, the ignorance, why it exists and what we can do about it.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has ended its use of the term “stigma”: Can you end yours? The end of one prejudice takes with it many more.

— Harold Maio
Fort Myers, Fla.

SHARE

Thanks for reading through to the end…

We share your inclination to get the whole story. For the past 25 years, Xpress has been committed to in-depth, balanced reporting about the greater Asheville area. We want everyone to have access to our stories. That’s a big part of why we've never charged for the paper or put up a paywall.

We’re pretty sure that you know journalism faces big challenges these days. Advertising no longer pays the whole cost. Media outlets around the country are asking their readers to chip in. Xpress needs help, too. We hope you’ll consider signing up to be a member of Xpress. For as little as $5 a month — the cost of a craft beer or kombucha — you can help keep local journalism strong. It only takes a moment.

About Webmaster
Mountain Xpress Webmaster Follow me @MXWebTeam

Before you comment

The comments section is here to provide a platform for civil dialogue on the issues we face together as a local community. Xpress is committed to offering this platform for all voices, but when the tone of the discussion gets nasty or strays off topic, we believe many people choose not to participate. Xpress editors are determined to moderate comments to ensure a constructive interchange is maintained. All comments judged not to be in keeping with the spirit of civil discourse will be removed and repeat violators will be banned. See here for our terms of service. Thank you for being part of this effort to promote respectful discussion.

2 thoughts on “Stop using the word “stigma” when you mean “ignorance”

  1. Fact Checker

    Mr. Maio says, “The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has ended its use of the term ‘stigma’: Can you end yours?”

    Meanwhile the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration offers this booklet for sale:
    Developing a Stigma Reduction Initiative (with CD)

    Provides tools to mount an effective mental health stigma and discrimination reduction initiative.

Leave a Reply

To leave a reply you may Login with your Mountain Xpress account, connect socially or enter your name and e-mail. Your e-mail address will not be published. All fields are required.