Stigma Types

There are multiple ways that stigma can occur as outlined in the table below.  It is important to understand the different types of stigma as they can help each of us to recognize them and properly address them when we witness or experience these different forms of stigma.   

The Seven Types of Stigma

Grappone, G. (2017 Spring). NAMI Advocate

TYPE ONE	TYPE TWO	TYPE THREE	TYPE FOUR	TYPE FIVE	TYPE SIX	TYPE SEVEN
Public Stigma This happens when the public endorses negative sterotypes and prejudices, resulting in discrimination against people with mental health conditions.	Self Stigma Self-stigma happens when a person with mental illness or substance-use disorder internalizes public stigma.	Perceived Stigma Perceived stigma is the belief that others have negative beliefs about people with mental illness.	Label Avoidance This is when a person chooses not to seek mental health treatment to avoid being assigned a stigmatizing label. Label avoidance is one of the most harmful forms of stigma.	Stigma by Association Stigma association occurs when the effects of stigma are extended to someone linked to a person with mental health difficulties. This type of stigma is also known as "courtesy stigma" and "associative stigma."	Structural Stigma Institutional policies or other societal structures that result in decreased opportunities for people with mental illness are considered structural stigma.	Health Practitioner Stigma This takes place any time a a health professional allows stereotypes and prejudices about mental illness to negatively affect a patient's care.