One of the “Purple Hat Ladies” believes that Vicki would hide the fact that she was depressed because she’d be ashamed of the fact. (p. 141) Do you feel that she’s correct and that there’s a stigma associated with depression? Do you think this has changed over the years?
There definitely is a stigma against mental illness because most people view it as a weakness and don’t understand the value of short-term counseling or therapy. Many people hold in their depression and won’t or can’t share their inner selves. Then again many people don’t have insight abilities to work in their personal issues. It’s a double edged sword.
I agree. Depression, in general, can be a hard concept for some people to grasp. So many people tell the struggling individual to “just get over it” or that they should “decide to be happy.” That’s particularly true if there’s no precipitating event, like the loss of a partner or job.
I think there is less stigma about depression than 20 years ago. The purple hat ladies may not have kept up with the times. Anyone who recognizes that they are depressed should not be ashamed to look for help.
I do think there is a stigma attached to depression. But I also agree with the idea that there is less stigma now than there used to be.
There has always been a stigma about mental health. We are getting better about this however it is still there. No one should be ashamed by their depression. But in this country, there are still people who choose to belittle folks in this state. We should be more compassionate and work to have mental health parity that matches physical health. Well our health system needs reform as well but that’s another story 
I also think that there is still a stigma associated with depression. Even so, I think that the stigma has softened somewhat. There is a lot of education and understanding still needed for people of all ages.
There’s absolutely a stigma associated with depression and mental health The stigma is more prevalent among older people than younger ones. People in Vickie’s age range tend to hide their mental health struggles because that is what they were taught to do. Mental health is talked about more openly today than ever before and because of that, people are more likely to seek help when it’s needed. However, even with attitudes about mental health being more open, many people still hide their struggles. This is more prevalent among older people and certain cultural groups.
There is a stigma about depression. I think it’s more prevalent in a successful social group.