The experience and consequences of people with mental health problems, the impact of stigma upon people with schizophrenia: a way forward

Accessible summary • The concept of schizophrenia has been examined and discussed in relation to its impact on service users. • Discriminating people with schizophrenia, service user's experiences are discussed and how they are disempowered. • The impact of stigma on a service user's quality of life has been explored and how this affects the social acceptance of service users. • Suggestions are made as to how the negative impact of schizophrenia can be reduced. The aim of this literature review is to explore stigma as experienced by individuals with mental health problems, focusing primarily on schizophrenia. The concept of stigma has been examined. Service users' reports of their experiences of stigma have been outlined. The role of the media, public perceptions and the role of the nurses and mental health services have been discussed. Proposals have been suggested to address stigma.