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[The German population's attitude towards mental disorders]
Georg Schomerus1,2, Jenny Spahlholz3, Sven Speerforck4,3
1Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Universitätsklinikum Leipzig- AöR, Semmelweisstr. 10, 04103, Leipzig, Deutschland. georg.schomerus@uni-leipzig.de.
Public attitudes toward mental illness in Germany evolved significantly between 1990 and 2020. While understanding for depression increased, the stigma surrounding schizophrenia appears to have worsened over this period.
Area of Science:
- Social Psychology
- Psychiatry
- Public Health
Context:
- Societal reactions to mental illness are influenced by cultural beliefs.
- Understanding mental illness stigma is crucial for public health initiatives.
- German population attitudes towards mental illness were examined from 1990-2020.
Purpose:
- To analyze the evolution of public attitudes toward mental illness in Germany over 30 years.
- To compare attitude changes for depression versus schizophrenia.
- To identify shifts in perceived causes, treatments, and social acceptance.
Summary:
- Attitudes toward mental illness are dynamic and vary by condition.
- Depression garners more understanding now than 30 years ago.
- Schizophrenia stigma has seemingly increased, with greater perceived unfamiliarity.
Impact:
- Findings highlight diverging public perceptions of depression and schizophrenia.
- Increased acceptance of psychotherapy and medication, but decreased reliance on spiritual support.
- Suggests evolving concepts of normality and mental illness in society.
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