Impact of the Stigma of Mental Illness: A Descriptive Exploratory Study of Outpatients in a Public Mental Health Hospital in Ghana

Despite ongoing efforts, persons with mental illness (PWMI) continue to experience stigma and discrimination and with profound negative outcomes. This study examined the psychological and social impact of the stigma attached to mental illness as experienced by out-patients at a public mental health facility. We applied a descriptive exploratory method using a semi-structured interview guide to elicit subjective responses from 12 Outpatient Department members. Study participants described various ways the stigma of mental illness impacted them within the social space. Overall, five (5) themes emerged. These include devaluing, losing their partners, social exclusion, unemployment, and loss of self-esteem. Participants' account of their experiences with stigma so far depicts stigma as an everyday occurrence that adversely impacts their social standing. To effectively address stigma requires intentional efforts to bridge the gap created by deliberate acts of discrimination and lack of support for PWMI within our social framework.