Stigma is a social phenomenon where a person is negatively labeled, disapproved of, or discriminated against because of a particular characteristic, attribute, or condition they possess. It involves being seen in a negative way due to traits such as mental illness, physical appearance, race, cultural background, or other differences. This negative perception often leads to stereotyping, social rejection, and unfair treatment

. Originally, the term "stigma" referred to physical marks or tattoos used in ancient Greece to identify criminals or slaves as "blemished" or morally tainted individuals to be avoided by society

. In modern sociology, Erving Goffman defined stigma as an attribute that deeply discredits a person, causing a gap between their "virtual social identity" (how they are perceived) and their "actual social identity" (who they really are)

. Stigma typically involves several components:

• Distinguishing and labeling differences
• Linking labeled individuals to negative stereotypes
• Separating "us" from "them"
• Status loss and discrimination against the labeled individuals
• Dependence on social, economic, and political power to enforce these effects

Stigma can worsen the experiences of those affected by causing emotional harm, low self-esteem, social isolation, and barriers to accessing help or resources, especially in contexts like mental health

. In summary, stigma is a socially constructed mark of disgrace or disapproval that leads to prejudice and discrimination against individuals or groups perceived as different or undesirable by society