Stigmatization and coping strategies of individuals diagnosed Dennise Julia V. Raymundo... [et. al]

Thesis Bachelor of Science in Psychology University of Rizal System-Morong. 2019

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: The main objective of the study was to determine the stigmatization, coping strategies and aspirations of the individuals diagnosed with mental health condition. The respondents were four (4) individuals who were diagnosed with depression. The study was conducted at University of Rizal System - Morong Campus. The study utilized the descriptive qualitative research design using case study method. The researchers utilized structured researchers'-made interview questions. The structured interview questionnaire has been reviewed and validated by the experts and licensed professors in Psychology. As the result of the study, it showed that all respondents experienced self-stigma yet have experienced negative judgments from their family with regards to their condition. Respondents utilized different coping strategies such as emotion-focused coping, problem-focused coping and avoidance coping strategy which helps and enable them to adapt and adjust with regards to their condition. Furthermore, all respondents aspire to overcome their condition, pursue their life dreams, and to be able to help other people who have the same condition as theirs. Based on the findings of the study, the researchers concluded that all respondents experienced self-stigma and received negative judgments from their family about their condition, thus utilizing various coping strategies to overcome difficulties with regards to their mental health condition. Their aspirations serve as the reasons of their co-existence and aid themselves to look forward in their future. As for general recommendations, one of the reasonable approaches to face this issue is for family and peers to encourage their relative that is suffering from mental health condition by showing moral support to them. The government may provide additional programs and projects that talks about mental health and how it affects individual in the society. Educational institutions may provide different interventions to foster knowledge and awareness to the students as well as the parents about various mental health topics such as prevention, promotion, or intervention. Thorough study of the Mental Health Law may be conducted for references and basis for future researchers. Advanced technology may contribute awareness on mental health conditions through continuous dissemination of information.