By John Hoey
In recent decades, stigma around mental health has unfortunately become more pronounced, especially when it comes to psychotic symptoms. However, the arts may hold the key to transforming how we view and understand psychosis, helping to break down barriers that fuel social isolation.
The Evolution of Stigma Around Psychosis
Sociologist Erving Goffman first defined stigma in 1963 as “the situation of the individual who is disqualified from full social acceptance,” a concept still very much alive today (Goffman, 1963). The Oxford English Dictionary defines stigma as “negative feelings people have about particular circumstances or characteristics that somebody may have.” For those experiencing psychotic symptoms—such as auditory hallucinations, feelings of paranoia, or implausible beliefs—such stigma can result in significant social exclusion, undermining self-esteem and obstructing recovery (Oxford English Dictionary).
The history of stigma toward psychosis is rooted in age-old misconceptions. In the distant past, psychosis was often attributed to demonic possession or other supernatural forces, leading to isolation rather than treatment. By the 18th and 19th centuries, the rise of asylums began to medicalise mental illness, yet individuals with psychosis continued to face social rejection. Fast-forward to the present, the stigma persists, often fuelled by sensationalist media portrayals. For instance, a study by Maletta and Vass found that UK newspaper coverage of terms like “schizophrenia” and “psychosis” has only worsened in recent decades, mainly within tabloid publications (Maletta & Vass, 2023).
Using Video to Change Minds
Some of the most promising efforts to reduce the stigma around psychosis involve video interventions. Research led by Amsalem and colleagues tested the impact of short videos featuring young people who openly discuss their diagnoses and daily challenges. In these clips, patients address work, family, and the importance of recovery, providing relatable narratives that can shift public perception (Amsalem et al., 2021). Participants who viewed the videos reported more openness towards people with psychosis compared to those who hadn’t watched. The videos helped to dispel stereotypes, encouraging viewers to imagine individuals with psychosis as neighbours, family members, or friends (Amsalem et al., 2022).
Creativity as a Tool for Reclaiming Self-Esteem
Creativity has long been linked to mental health conditions, and many with psychotic experiences find solace and self-expression in the arts. Edvard Munch, known for his evocative painting The Scream, famously remarked, “I cannot get rid of my illnesses, for there is a lot in my art that exists only because of them” (Heller, 1973). Today, art continues to offer a powerful outlet for those with psychosis, allowing them to express their inner worlds and form supportive communities. One such initiative, the Psychosis Arts Collective in Ireland, brings together artists with lived experiences of psychosis to challenge perceptions and foster understanding (Jimenez, 2023).
The theatre has also proven effective in fostering empathy. A study by Landa and colleagues explored using a play titled Voices, created by an individual with first-hand experience of auditory hallucinations. The production, grounded in narrative psychology, engaged audiences in a shared emotional experience, bridging gaps in understanding and reducing prejudice (Landa et al., 2023). By inviting audiences into the personal realities of psychosis, theatre can demystify these experiences and support social integration.
The Future of Stigma Reduction: Digital Campaigns
Digital media is becoming an essential tool for challenging mental health stigma. In Ireland, the Psychosis Ireland Structured Research and Training Programme (PSI-STAR) explores how online animations and social media can serve as cost-effective ways to educate young people and minority communities about psychosis (Coughlan et al., 2021). Collaborating with the Psychosis Arts Collective and theatre company Broken Talkers, PSI-STAR aims to bust common myths and foster open discussions that destigmatise the condition (BrokenTalkers, 2024).
By leaning on creative mediums, society can begin to see psychosis through a new lens that fosters empathy, reduces stigma, and empowers individuals. Through a painting, a short video, or an online campaign, artistic expression offers a compelling path to broader social acceptance and a deeper understanding of psychosis.
