Göttingen in focus: Psychiatry Forum starts exciting exchange series!

Göttingen in focus: Psychiatry Forum starts exciting exchange series!

There is an exciting event in Göttingen that should attract many interested parties: the Psychiatry Forum, which begins on October 6, 2025. This is all about the exchange of personal experiences between people with psychiatric experience, their relatives, employees of psychiatric institutions and other people working in psychiatric care. According to the information from catholic-kirche-goettingen.de The forum aims to promote equal encounters through shared storytelling and mutual learning. The events are free and last approximately 90 minutes. A real piece of community, there's something there!

The planned dates are thematically diverse: On October 6th, the long path to appropriate help will be discussed. The topics of the following evenings range from self-care to inner security in uncertain times to the stigmatization of those with mental illnesses. These issues are not only relevant, they affect many people. The German Center for Mental Health (DZPG) has also dealt heavily with the topic of stigmatization. People with mental illness often face prejudice, which can lead to social isolation and health problems.

Stigmatization as a second illness

An interesting observation is the so-called “second disease”, as described in Medical Journal is described. This stigmatization is often more stressful than the mental illness itself. Prof. Dr. Nicolas Rüsch, a stigma researcher, describes the tragic effects, which range from withdrawal to demoralization to an increased risk of suicide. Worse, family members not only witness the suffering, they are also often the victims of discrimination.

These social challenges are increasingly being recognized. Initiatives such as the Mental Health Action Week and DZPG projects focus on raising public awareness of mental illnesses. A global study shows that around 80 percent of respondents with schizophrenia and depression have already experienced discrimination. The need for programs to educate and reduce stigma is becoming apparent.

Prevention and education

To break the vicious circle of stigma and mental illness, tailored programs are needed. In the future, teachers should learn more about mental illnesses to promote understanding among young people. Employers also play a role. You are required to design suitable programs for the return of mentally ill employees. media should also pay attention to their content and avoid stigmatizing representations.

The Psychiatry Forum in Göttingen offers an excellent platform to discuss these topics and take the first step towards a more open and empathetic society. Let's work together to break down prejudices and offer those affected the support they deserve. Let's get it done!