The Big Elephant in the Room : Mental Health and Stigma Among Adolescents in Botkyrka:A Qualitative Study on a Disadvantaged Suburb in Sweden
Year: 2024
Type: dissertation
Abstract: This study explores how social stigma related to mental health is perceived and experienced by adolescents aged 14-19 in Botkyrka, Sweden, a community known for its socioeconomic challenges. The mental health (MH) conditions significantly affect adolescents worldwide, with particular challenges in socioeconomically disadvantaged communities. The stigma associated with MH includes negative stereotypes, prejudice, and lack of understanding, which differ depending on the culture and context. This in turn influences adolescents' MH coping strategies which include seeking care, having social support, open dialogues, resilience, education and advocacy. Using a qualitative approach, the study employed 10 semi-structured interviews with adolescents from the Botkyrka area. Data collected are analysed inductively, using reflexive thematic analysis by Braun and Clarke, to understand how adolescents experience and perceive mental health and stigma. Lastly, the findings were interpreted using social cognitive theory in the discussion. The study revealed that mental health stigma is navigated by adolescents in their daily lives and their mental health coping mechanisms. The findings, divided into three themes; “The social mirror”, “The unspoken truth” and “The seed of change”, illustrate the interplay of social influences, educational environments and adolescents' MH experiences and perceptions. This study further advocates for a collective and proactive approach to empower adolescents to effectively cope with mental health. By doing so, we can equip them to not only challenge the stigma but also actively participate in creating a supportive and inclusive mental health culture in their communities. These efforts are important to amplify their voices, raise awareness and cultivate a supportive community for mental health.
Author: nanvazade, soshin
Institution: Uppsala University
Language: English
Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7036460871