The Social Psychological Stigma { The Egyptian Explained}

 

Social Stigma Representation

The Burdens We Carry

Often, when people are asked "How are you?", they respond with phrases like “Fine,” “Okay,” or “Very well.” These are common responses that mask the reality that many are carrying some form of burden. Life presents numerous challenges that are universally familiar, and at times, these burdens become overwhelming. So, what do people do when faced with these overwhelming challenges? There are various ways individuals address these obstacles, some of which are accepted by society, while others are not.

Defining and Tackling Burdens

Each person defines their burdens differently, as we are not all the same in terms of circumstances or perceptions. However, there are certain mechanisms or strategies that people use to tackle these burdens. Society's perspective on what constitutes a burden also plays a significant role in how these challenges are approached and managed.

Life in Egypt: The Struggles and Coping Mechanisms

In Egypt, many people face significant life challenges on a daily basis. Basic life demands are central to these struggles. Each person has their own unique way of coping, with many in survival mode. This survival mentality could explain the prevalence of people-pleasing behaviors in the country. This trait, while often seen as positive, is frequently motivated by a desire for safety or incentives, rather than purely altruistic motivations. In a place like Egypt, where safety and well-being are far from guaranteed, the need to please others becomes a survival tactic.

The Power Dynamics

There are individuals in Egypt who hold power and control over the lives of the majority. These people, who often exhibit a strong sense of entitlement and dominance, shape the social landscape. Their narcissistic tendencies and overwhelming confidence define their image. Such individuals are not unique to Egypt, but the country does have systematic patterns of life destruction that empower them. Egypt has, unfortunately, become a professional field for this type of destructive behavior.

The Interplay Between Dominance and Oppression

The social dynamics between the dominant and oppressed in Egypt are complex and fluid. It is rare for these roles to be reversed or for both sides to be interchangeable in the day-to-day struggles of life. This ongoing struggle results in a series of intense, often traumatic, experiences. Yet, within this turbulent reality, there exists a stigma surrounding psychological therapy. Many people in Egypt deny the need for therapy, claiming they are fine, even as they navigate chaotic and damaging circumstances. This stigma arises from the belief that acknowledging psychological struggles is a sign of weakness or instability.

The Question of Stability

In a society like Egypt's, where the lines between the dominant and oppressed are often blurred, the concept of "stability" becomes highly questionable. People often define stability by external markers, but these markers can be deeply flawed. The so-called "stable" individuals may actually be carrying more psychological burdens than those who are openly struggling. Stability, as defined by society, is often a facade.

The Reality of Stigma

The stigma surrounding psychological issues often stems from an individual's perceived inability to function within society. To understand this, one must closely examine the values and structure of society itself. While society doesn't typically recognize its own flaws, it is essential to scrutinize how it functions in order to understand why certain stigmas persist. In some instances, the individuals with mental health struggles are more needed by society than those who appear to be functioning well within a stigmatized environment. The very notion of being stigmatized by psychological issues can, ironically, become a tool for labeling and controlling individuals within society.

The Need for Change

In the end, the idea of stability is often more illusion than reality. Stability in society is fluid, shaped by power dynamics and the roles people are forced to play. Society needs to recognize and address the complexities of mental health and the stigmas attached to it. Instead of perpetuating harmful stereotypes, it is crucial to foster a more empathetic and understanding environment.