Thesis (BS Architecture) -- University of the Philippines Mindanao, 2009

Stigma is another name for the negative stereotypes our culture attaches to a characteristic or behavior. Usually based on a combination of fear and false beliefs, stigma leads to judgment and discrimination for the mentally ill. In the case of mental illness as weak, bizarre, shameful,or violent. Because our culture lacks understanding of mental disorders, it is no surprise that these conditions remain shrouded in mystery and denial. The stigma of mental health diagnosis causes people to conceal their disorders. Fear of negative labels and disrespect lead them to hide the truth ? sometimes even from themselves. And so the cycle silence continues. Tragically, fear of rejection prevents people in pain from seeking counseling and support. The majority (two thirds) of people with mental conditions don't seek any treatment. Researchers report that stigma is the number one factor that keeps people from getting the help they need. This study aims to provide a venue wherein it can reduce the stigma that comes with mental illness. Two psychiatric facilities: one privately run and the other run by the government were studied to determine to determine the best practices that the facilities provide to help mentally ill people. The results were used to formulate guidelines for the design of a psychiatric facility that uses Bio-psycho-social approach an approach that is revolutionary as well as universally applied to medical treatments nowadays.