Why is addressing stigma around mental health essential in self-care practice, and how should practitioners approach seeking help?

• A. Deny personal mental health issues to avoid bias.
• B. Rely exclusively on peer support within the workplace.
• C. Reduces barriers to care; seek confidential help; maintain confidentiality; model self-care; ensure help does not impair ability to practice.
• D. Hide personal issues from colleagues.

Answer: (C)

Addressing stigma around mental health matters because stigma creates real barriers to care. When stigma is present, practitioners may delay or avoid seeking help, which can let mental health concerns worsen and, in turn, affect judgment, energy, and the quality of patient care. Normalizing and actively addressing mental health care makes it more likely that clinicians will pursue confidential support early, preserving both their well-being and professional performance.

Confidentiality is essential. Using confidential resources—such as licensed professionals, therapy, or employee assistance programs—helps protect privacy and maintain trust with clients, colleagues, and employers. Modeling self-care by openly taking care of one’s mental health shows that seeking help is compatible with responsible practice, not a sign of weakness. Importantly, the path to help should not compromise safety or the ability to provide safe, effective care; if a mental health issue could impair performance, appropriate steps should be taken to manage that risk, including treatment or adjustments as needed.

Denying issues avoids reality and can worsen outcomes; relying only on peer support in the workplace may lack professional guidance and confidentiality; hiding issues from colleagues perpetuates stigma and delays necessary help.