Research finding · April 2026
Different forms of stigma may shape suicide risk among Black young adults
Suicidal thoughts and behaviors among Black American emerging adults have received growing attention in recent years, alongside efforts to better understand the social factors that shape risk. While emotional distress plays a major role, experiences of stigma (i.e., negative attitudes) surrounding mental health may influence how risk develops and whether individuals seek support. Stigma can take different forms. Perceived public stigma refers to the belief that others view people in mental health treatment negatively (e.g., that they may be judged, avoided, or seen as weak). Self-stigma, on the other hand, reflects the internalization of these beliefs, such as feeling ashamed of one’s own distress or viewing oneself negatively for needing help. These experiences can shape how individuals interpret their struggles, whether they disclose distress, and how they engage with care. Understanding these dynamics is especially important for Black emerging adults, who may face unique cultural and structural barriers to mental health support.
Dr. Hans Oh used his AFSP grant to examine how perceived public stigma and self-stigma were associated with suicidal ideation and suicide attempts among more than 1,200 Black American young adults ages 18–29. Participants completed an online survey assessing stigma, perceived need for mental health support, and recent suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Among those who reported needing help, higher perceived public stigma was associated with greater likelihood of suicidal ideation, while self-stigma was more strongly associated with suicide attempts. Among those who did not report needing help, stigma was generally not associated with suicidal thoughts or behaviors; however, individuals who endorsed more negative beliefs about people in mental health treatment (conceptualized as prejudice in this group) showed a higher likelihood of recent suicide attempts. Overall, the findings suggest that how a person experiences these perceived negative attitudes may affect their thoughts and behavior in regard to suicide.
Citation: Oh, H.; Boyd, D.; Anderson, R.E.; Patterson, A.; Stephens, J.R.B.; Besecker, M.; Goodwill, J. Stigma and suicidal thoughts and behaviors among Black American emerging adults. SSM - Ment. Heal. 2026, 9, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ssmmh.2026.100598
This finding comes from an AFSP-funded study — see the grant below ↓
