What is Stigma Free?
Stigma Free Zones
The Stigma-Free Campaign is an international program which aims to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness. We are dedicated to raising awareness of mental illness and positive mental health, by creating a culture where our community feel supported by one oneanother. We want you and your neighbours to feel free to speak up and to seek support without the fear of any form of stigma.
Establishing Stigma-Free Zones will raise awareness of the local mental health resources available so no resident needs to feel hopeless or alone. Stigma-Free Zones will encourage residents to break down barriers and be mindful of their mental health and ask for help when needed. Mental illness has the potential to worsen if left untreated and complications arise when individuals do not seek help. It is essential that residents engage in care as soon as the need is identified so recovery can begin, hope is inspired and tragedies are avoided.
Who is involved? Everyone is involved. This an international initiative which includes residents, young and old. From bus drivers to school administrators, every community member is a key stakeholder. We want to link all stakeholders to training opportunities and awareness events aimed at increasing public knowledge of the of mental health and knowledge of local resources available to them.
Can I bring Stigma Free to my town or workplace?
ABSOLUTELY!
The following is given as a brief guide only, please get in touch for a tool kit if you would like to bring Stigma Free to your town
Identify a Stigma-Free ambassador
The second step is to fine a Stigma-Free ambassador. An ambassador is any resident who embraces the Stigma-Free initiative and will help bring your Stigma-Free campaign to life. This can be incredibly hard work and time consuming, but extremely rewarding.
Form a Stigma Free Task Force
Once you have established your ambassador its time to gather a team of dedicated residents who can help enhance the culture of caring in your community.
Create an action plan
Now you have established a task force, it's time to bring your Stigma Free Campaign to life. Hold a meeting at the town hall, arrange a stigma free walk - its entirely for you to decide what will work in your community.
Invite the press
Great, you have got a plan, a task force and an ambassador - your nearly ready to launch. Make sure as many people know as possible.
Launch
It's time to launch your stigma free campaign, be sure to get as many businesses, services and schools involved as possible.
Don't forget to attend our yearly network events.
Drop us a line, we can help you get started
The first step is to 'drop us a line', you can contact us by clicking here, we will send your a tool kit to help you through this exciting journey. We will be at hand to help you every step of the way.
Success Stories
“I started this campaign a number of years ago, I never envisaged it would be become an international project. This has really changed the way communities are supporting each other”
— Mary Ann Uzzi