Stigma

Stigma describes a negative perception or judgement, often generalised, of a person or group of people based on a particular characteristic. It is a yucky phenomenon, and way too common.

Stigma can also be closely correlated with shame. Shame, as described by Brené Brown, is an intensely painful feeling/ experience of believing we’re flawed and unworthy. Shame is also something that thrives in silence. When we stay silent about shame, there is less opportunity to challenge the source of shame and stigma. Speaking about these sources of shame/ stigma can be hard though, because often, stigma causes a topic to become something of a taboo. Usually, sources of stigma are also topics that people have strong opinions about, meaning there is an increased chance of judgement or assumptions.

Both stigma and shame can have horrible consequences, like reduced senses of self worth and/or self esteem, among other things. Many of these impacts can be long-lasting. Sometimes, it can be useful to have support to address these. At Illuminating Insights, we’ve experienced stigma and shame. We’ve been there. You’re more than welcome to reach out to us to enquire about receiving support.

If you’re interested in exploring this topic deeper, we recommend the following to start off;

• Illuminating Insights blog on Assumptions

• Brené Brown talk on shame

• Better than Yesterday podcast episode featuring Darren Hayes, including discussion about shame

• book Broken Brains, which explores the differing responses to different kinds of illness/ disability, primarily through the personal narratives of the co-authors