Which of the following best explains how stigma prevents people from seeking help for mental health issues?

• A. Stigma leads individuals to fear judgment or discrimination, causing them to avoid seeking professional help.
• B. Stigma has no impact on whether people seek help for mental health issues.
• C. Stigma increases the availability of mental health resources, making it easier for people to get help.
• D. Stigma encourages open conversations about mental health, reducing barriers to treatment.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of stigma in the context of mental health. Stigma refers to negative attitudes, beliefs, and discrimination directed toward individuals with mental health issues.
2. Step 2: Recognize how stigma can influence behavior. When people anticipate judgment or discrimination due to stigma, they may feel ashamed or fearful about revealing their mental health struggles.
3. Step 3: Analyze the impact of stigma on help-seeking behavior. Fear of being judged or discriminated against can discourage individuals from seeking professional mental health support.
4. Step 4: Evaluate the incorrect options by considering whether stigma increases resources, has no impact, or encourages open conversations, and compare these with the known effects of stigma.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the best explanation is that stigma leads individuals to fear judgment or discrimination, which causes them to avoid seeking professional help for mental health issues.