Mental Health Stigma and Awareness: A Study of Community Perceptions and Barriers to Mental Health Care in Shankharapur Municipality

Abstract

Mental health is an essential component of overall well-being, influencing how individuals think, feel, cope with stress, and interact with others. Despite increasing global awareness, mental health stigma continues to remain a major public health concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where misconceptions, discrimination, and limited access to care discourage individuals from seeking professional support. This study aimed to assess mental health awareness and stigma among residents of Shankharapur Municipality, Kathmandu, Nepal, and to identify barriers to mental health care as well as possible strategies to reduce stigma within the community. A cross-sectional descriptive mixedmethod research design was employed among 105 respondents selected through simple random sampling from Ward No. 6. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and face-to-face interviews and analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. The findings revealed that respondents generally possessed a good level of mental health awareness, with many recognizing the importance of mental health and acknowledging that mental illness can affect anyone. However, stigmatizing attitudes and misconceptions remained prevalent, including beliefs that mental illness is associated with danger, personal weakness, and shame. Major barriers to accessing mental health support included lack of awareness, social stigma, fear of judgment, family influence, and poor communication. Despite these challenges, respondents expressed positive attitudes toward recovery and social inclusion of individuals with mental illness. The study concludes that although mental health awareness is gradually improving, stigma remains a significant barrier to help-seeking behavior. Therefore, community-based awareness programs, mental health education, counseling services, and culturally sensitive anti-stigma interventions are essential to improve mental health outcomes and promote a supportive social environment.