The Association Between Internalized Stigma and Feelings of Loneliness and Quality of Life in Patients with Mental Disorders

Background Individuals with mental disorders are subject to stigma from society. Some patients accept and internalize this stigma, while others suffer from loneliness and reduced quality of life. Objective This study aimed to investigate the relationship between internalized stigma, feelings of loneliness, and quality of life in patients with mental disorders. Methods In 2023, a descriptive study was conducted on 250 patients with psychological disorders who were referred to Sina Hospital (Farshchian) in Hamadan. The patients were selected using a convenience sampling method. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using four questionnaires: demographic information, the internalized stigma of mental illness, Russell's loneliness scale, and the World Health Organization's 26-item quality of life questionnaire. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical tests in SPSS-22 software. Results There was a significant positive correlation between internal stigma and loneliness (p < 0.001, r = 0.817) and a significant negative correlation between internal stigma and quality of life (p < 0.001, r = -0.777). Additionally, loneliness and quality of life had a significant negative correlation (p < 0.001, r = -0.838). Conclusion The results generally indicate that approximately half of the patients with internalized stigma experience moderate to severe distress. As internalized stigma increases, patients are more likely to experience feelings of loneliness and decrease their quality of life. Therefore, it is recommended that measures be taken to reduce internalized stigma in patients with psychiatric disorders to alleviate feelings of loneliness and improve their quality of life.