Mental Health Stigma and Inpatient Psychiatric Care: Adolescents’ Perceptions and Parental Self-Stigma

Abstract

Background

Mental health stigma remains a significant barrier to treatment and recovery, particularly among adolescents. This study explores perceived stigma in previously hospitalized adolescents, their perceptions of inpatient psychiatric care, and parental self-stigma.

Methods

We employed a cross-sectional, mixed-methods design with 82 adolescents (n = 67 females), aged 12-17 years (M = 15.5, SD = 1.2) and their parents. Quantitative measures included the Adolescent’s Stigma Scale, Parents’ Self-Stigma Scale, and Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Qualitative data were collected via open-ended questions and analyzed using content analysis.

Results

Findings indicated notable perceived stigma, especially among older adolescents (15–17 years) and those two hospitalizations, with secrecy, self-stigma, and rejection associated with emotional and behavioural difficulties. Parental self-stigma correlated with child’s age and length of hospitalization, and inversely with adolescent secrecy. Qualitative findings revealed that hospitalization offered emotional support and opportunities for personal growth, yet also posed challenges to autonomy, social and educational stability, and psychological well-being.

Conclusions

Findings highlight the need for flexible hospital policies, improved discharge communication, mental health literacy initiatives, and peer-support programs. Future research should examine cultural influences, stigma trajectories, and effective family-based interventions for adolescents.

Plain Language Summary

Mental health stigma—stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination related to mental illness—can make it harder for adolescents to get the care and support they need. This study explored how teens experience stigma and psychiatric inpatient care. It also examined how parents feel about having a child with mental health challenges. We included 82 adolescents aged 12 to 17, along with their parents. Teens answered questions about their emotions, behaviours, and stigmatizing experiences, while parents completed a questionnaire that measured self-stigma—how much they blamed themselves or felt ashamed because of their child’s condition. Our findings revealed that many adolescents experienced significant stigma, particularly older teens and those who had been hospitalized twice. Negative self-perceptions were common. Many reported personal rejections, including disrespect, criticism, and bullying due to mental health issues. Feelings of shame, secrecy, or rejection were linked to more severe emotional and behavioural difficulties. Interestingly, when parents experienced heightened self-stigma, their children were less secretive about their mental health problems. Despite these challenges, several adolescents stated that hospitalization helped them feel supported, understand themselves better, and foster personal growth. However, many struggled with losing independence, staying connected with friends, keeping up with school, and feeling anxious about not knowing when they’d be discharged. These findings suggest that inpatient clinical settings should adopt more flexible policies and improve communication about discharge planning. Programs that help adolescents and their families better understand mental health and reduce stigma could make a big difference.