A Cross-sectional Study on the Levels of Internalized Stigma among Persons Suffering from Mental Illness in South Tamilnadu, India

This cross-sectional study investigates the prevalence and levels of internalized stigma (IS) among individuals suffering from mental illness in South Tamilnadu, India. Conducted between December 2021 and March 2022, the study involved 310 participants diagnosed with mental illness for at least six months. Data were collected using the Internalized Stigma of Mental Illness (ISMI) Inventory and a semi-structured questionnaire capturing socio-demographic details. Statistical analyses, including Pearson correlation, one-way ANOVA, and post-hoc Tukey HSD tests, were employed to determine the relationship between IS and various factors. The findings reveal a high prevalence of IS, with 64.83% of participants scoring above 2.5 on the ISMI scale. Key factors influencing IS include age, education, employment, marital status, economic status, duration of illness, and regular doctor consultation. Young adults, individuals with lower educational attainment, the unemployed individuals, and those with longer illness duration exhibited higher IS levels. Notably, individuals who regularly consulted doctors and those with fewer hospital admissions reported lower IS levels. The study highlights significant socio-demographic disparities in IS, underscoring the need for targeted anti-stigma programs. Enhancing awareness and education about mental illness, improving access to mental health resources, and fostering supportive environments are crucial for mitigating IS. The findings call for comprehensive, individualized treatment plans considering each patient's social context to promote better mental health outcomes and facilitate social integration for individuals with psychiatric illnesses.