A sociocultural perspective of mental health stigma in Malta

Abstract

Introduction: Epidemiological research depicting the overall prevalence of mental health disorders in Malta is sparse. With a population of over 535,000 inhabitants, it is estimated that around 120,000 individuals have a mental disorder. The reported local percentage prevalence stands at 6.6% for depression; 7.8% for anxiety, and for schizophrenia, at 0.026% for the general population and 0.4% for asylum seekers. Approximately 25.2% of individuals under the age of 14 are at risk of developing a mental disorder, which is higher than that estimated in Europe. Stigma, or the negative judgement toward individuals with a mental illness , is a prevailing concern that has been on local and international agendas for years. Research worldwide depicts that stigma affects various dimensions, including treatment adherence, family dynamics, employment, social inclusion, and the occurrence of other mental health illnesses. Individuals having mental illnesses in Malta also experience stigma, and an exploration of this phenomenon requires immersion in a Mediterranean cultural context, due to its influence on Maltese society. Such cultural beliefs are of significance as they influence how disorders are understood, described, and managed, how help is sought and how treatment is received. Malta, being at the center of the Mediterranean Sea, and having been under the governance of Arabic, Central and Southern European territories, has been inspired to develop into what it is today, with Mediterranean values remaining prominent. Familial support, honor, religion, shame, and strong family values are factors shaping overall wellbeing in a Mediterranean culture, possibly affecting how Maltese society views and behaves when confronted with mental illness. Despite efforts to shift institutional care to community care, discussing mental health disorders is still not a customary practice and many refrain from admitting to any pertinent mental health challenges. Conversely, discussing mental health wellbeing in general is becoming more acceptable, possibly due to the ever-increasing mental wellbeing awareness campaigns, focusing on the importance of creating a healthy work-life balance. The association between Maltese cultural and societal norms and public attitudes toward mental health poses concern, particularly when trying to curb stigmatizing behaviors. This article aims at raising awareness on the impact of this relationship and offers views on the effectiveness of current stigma reduction movements and initiatives.