When individuals face the onset of a mental illness such
as schizophrenia, these stereotypes become relevant to
the self. This perspective also suggests that individuals
constrict their social networks and opportunities in anticipation
of rejection due to stigma, which leads to isolation,
unemployment, and lowered income. They may
also be less willing to seek treatment due to perceived
stigma.20 Along with internalized stigma, these ‘‘failures’’
result in self-esteem and self-efficacy decrements.