Internalized Stigma Among Individuals With Bipolar Disorder: Associations With Sociodemographic and Clinical...

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Mental Health Research
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Bipolar disorder (BD) is a leading cause of global disability.
• Internalized stigma, adopting societal stereotypes, impairs functioning in BD.
• Research on internalized stigma and its correlates in BD is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate associations between internalized stigma and sociodemographic, marital, and clinical factors in individuals with BD.
• To identify predictors of overall internalized stigma and its specific dimensions.

Main Methods:

• 118 individuals with BD were assessed using the Internalized Stigma of Mental Illness Scale (ISMIS).
• Data collected via follow-up documents and clinical interviews.
• Statistical analyses identified significant predictors of stigma.

Main Results:

• Unemployment, shorter BD duration, residual symptoms, and higher depressive scores predicted increased internalized stigma.
• Younger age, female gender, absence of mania dominance, and higher depressive scores predicted alienation.
• Residual symptoms predicted stereotype endorsement and perceived discrimination; younger age and more depressive episodes predicted perceived discrimination.

Conclusions:

• Internalized stigma is elevated in early BD stages and with residual symptoms.
• Targeted psychosocial interventions during early disease phases may mitigate stigma.
• A multidimensional approach to internalized stigma can enhance BD patient functionality and quality of life.