Differences in Stigma Surrounding Treatment for Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Major Depressive Disorder Across Race and Gender in College Students

With increasing awareness of how identity impacts mental health, there is a need to understand if and how race and sexual orientation influence the stigma surrounding the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and major depressive disorder (MDD). Through evaluating the impact of each of these facets of identity, we can provide insight into the complex interactions between these factors and how they affect stigma. College students from three universities (N = 978) completed several questionnaires, including those using diagnostic criteria for GAD and MDD from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders to explore the influence of race and sexual orientation on the stigma surrounding the treatment of GAD and MDD. We used independent-samples t-tests to evaluate differences between White and Non-White-identifying students. Compared to White students, Non-White students reported lower symptoms of GAD, equivalent symptoms of MDD, but more negative attitudes about therapy and medication, and higher levels of stigma against those with mental illness. Sexual minorities had greater rates of GAD and MDD, more positive attitudes regarding receiving medications, and higher rates of having received therapy, medication, and psychiatric hospitalization. Addressing these disparities is crucial for reducing stigma, promoting equity, and improving mental health outcomes for individuals with GAD and MDD.