Reply to this discussion using a different recent scholarly article and biblical perspective: Stigma is something that is all around us and can greatly impact our practice as social workers if we aren't careful. Ideas such as "going to therapy doesn't work" or "being vulnerable shows weakness" are unfortunately ideas that many people hold. This stigma has been passed down for centuries and is historically more male-centered than female (Chatmon, 2020). When people are told or shown their whole lives that "real men don't cry," they start to believe that toughness and vulnerability do not go hand in hand. To counter this, the Bible says in 2 Corinthians 12:9, "My power is made perfect in weakness" (NIV, 2018). The Lord encourages us to embrace vulnerability because it makes us more like Him, and He can reveal His goodness and strength when we are weak.

Knowing that certain communities may feel a sense of stigma around receiving mental health services allows us to flip the script on it. 58% of people in the U.S. with mental illnesses did not get help due to a fear of how the people around them would react (Rethink Mental Illness, 2023). Being culturally competent is key to getting the right services to the right people. For example, someone who's been told getting help is a weakness may benefit more from case management and resources that allow them to take ownership in accomplishing their goals. When things feel out of control, giving clients space for autonomy and power in their care plans and goals is key. In addition, recognizing the stigma, validating their feelings regarding it, and then sharing the benefits of getting help can reshape their thought processes and reduce stigma.

The Bible touches on fear and power many times, highlighting stories like Esther and the Israelites in Egypt. The book of Esther shows how a group of marginalized people were being discriminated against because of their religion and culture. They were on the verge of being killed wrongfully due to their beliefs, and this threat was used to make them bow to the King when they desired to only bow to God. In the book of Exodus, the Israelites were forced into slavery at the hands of the Egyptians, working tirelessly out of fear of their authorities.

In relation to fear and power, the Bible says in Isaiah 41:10, "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand" (NIV,2018). This shows us that the Lord is always with us and fighting for us. He has the ultimate power and authority, and He is who we should get our strength and values from, not the world or worldly ideals and stigma. Furthermore, Psalm 23:4 says, "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and staff, they comfort me" (NIV, 2018). The Bible does not say that we will not be oppressed and hurt by stigma, but it does say that in our weakness, He is protecting and providing for us.