The extent of mental health professional stigma on people with mental health problems in Saudi Arabia

Research Aim The primary purpose of this Saudi-based study is to identify the stigma surrounding mental health problems, as well as to identify the existing and latent views of mental health professionals holding a stigma towards people living with mental health problems in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It will focus on mental health experts involved in health care in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Methods A methodological strategy was devised, via the use of a mixed-method approach, which uses quantitative (phase 1) and qualitative (phase 2) data collection approaches and analytical techniques. In Phase 1 (50 participants), two tools were used to assess stigma; the Emotional Reaction on People with mental health problems Scale, and the Attitude Scale. In Phase 2 (5participants), a one-hour focus group discussion was the method of data collection. The reliability of the two scales for Phase 1 evaluated by measuring internal consistency using SPSS. In Phase 2, Nvivo, version 10 was used for an analysis of the data. The group discussion was thematically analyzed. Principal Findings The findings confirm that many mental health care providers hold a professional stigma against those with mental health problems of varying degrees. And how the existence and extent of these views might impact on the services provided by mental health professionals and the recovery of people with mental health problems. Phase 1 findings indicate factors that lead to professional stigma, wherein ‘exclusion’, ‘rejection and caution’ and ‘risk and fear’ lead to high levels of professional stigma against people with mental health problems. Phase 2 findings, fit into four main themes influence the issue of professional stigma in mental health services: ‘experiences of professional stigma’; ‘causes of professional stigma’; ‘impact of professional stigma on mental health services’ and ‘recommended minimizing stigma’. The findings of the present study point to the significant convergent between emotional reactions with negative attitudes exhibited regarding people with mental health problems. It was also found that interactions with individuals with mental health concerns contributed to an increase in incidences of stigma by professional mental health staff. Also, it has been shown that insufficient knowledge and undesirable perceptions of people with mental health problems remain apparent, both in Saudi Arabian society and in the mental health profession. Conclusion It is necessary to focus on reducing professional stigma against people with mental health problems. This can be accomplished through appropriate practices, mental health training, education, and research, as well as professional and social awareness through the media in S.A.; publicize ethical guidelines for mental health care professionals; enhance the provision of mental health practitioners in mental health care services; enact legislation by the Ministry of Health in S.A. Keywords: Stigma, mental health problems, and mental health professional perspective, Saudi Arabia