Learning objectives

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:

  • Understand the challenges of stigma and discrimination that contribute to minority stress.
  • Learn how stigma related to disability impacts mental health in people with physical impairments.
  • Recognize how self-stigmatization can lead to mental health concerns.

Why this matters

Addressing the barriers faced by people with disabilities helps create more inclusive communities:

  • Disability stigma increases stress, isolation, and limits access to education and jobs.
  • Internalized stigma leads to low self-esteem and reluctance to seek support.
  • Reducing stigma improves independence, dignity, and quality of life.
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Stigma, discrimination, and mental health outcomes

People with both a psychiatric and a physical disability face higher levels of stigma and discrimination than those with only a psychiatric disability.64

  • Higher rates of depression and anxiety: Adults with physical disabilities are more likely to experience mood disorders and emotional distress.65
  • Social isolation: Limited mobility, stigma, and inaccessible environments contribute to reduced social engagement.66
  • Lower quality of life: Feelings of exclusion and restricted opportunities impact overall psychological well-being.67

These factors combine to worsen mental health outcomes, leading to increased stress and reduced life satisfaction.68

Perceived stigma and stress responses

Stigma does not only come from explicit discrimination — it is also shaped by how people perceive and internalize social attitudes.

  • People without disabilities often feel uncomfortable interacting with individuals who have visible disabilities.69
  • Those with severe physical disabilities may be excluded from social groups, reinforcing feelings of marginalization.70
  • Adults with both physical and intellectual disabilities report higher levels of public stigma and are more likely to feel stigmatized.71

These experiences increase stress responses, which contribute to negative health outcomes and emotional distress.72

Self-stigmatization and its impact

Self-stigmatization happens when people believe negative stereotypes about their disability. This can lead to low self-esteem, social withdrawal, and emotional distress.

When people internalize stigma, they may:

  • Hide their emotions instead of expressing how they feel.
  • Avoid trusting others, fearing judgment or rejection.
  • Seek constant approval, feeling they must prove their worth.
  • Isolate themselves, withdrawing from social activities.
  • Be overly self-critical, believing they are not good enough.

Studies show that people with both psychiatric and physical disabilities who feel stigmatized are more likely to experience mental health challenges. They also report poorer physical health, lower emotional well-being, and reduced life satisfaction.64 

Other research shows that older adults with physical disabilities and moderate intellectual disabilities are more likely to face public stigma or report feeling stigmatized.71

These findings highlight how stigma and discrimination worsen mental health for people with physical disabilities. Addressing these barriers can improve overall well-being and quality of life.73

Test your understanding

1. Stigma and discrimination do not significantly impact the mental health of people with disabilities.
2. Which of the following is NOT an example of self-stigmatization?
3. Which one of the following is MOST helpful to reducing self-stigmatization?
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