Discrimination results in individuals receiving fewer opportunities and reduced access to resources (Abdullah, 2011). For example, social stigma may prevent a person from obtaining a job, pursuing higher education, or establishing relationships with others. This can then decrease an individual's self-esteem and self-worth (Corrigan, 2004), as they feel they are failing to fit into society. For this reason, individuals often hide their illness from others and choose not to pursue treatment in an attempt to avoid social stigma. According to the Association of Psychological Science (2014), 40% of people with mental illness choose not to receive treatment due to stigma-related factors. Without treatment, a person's mental illness can gradually worsen, significantly impairing their quality of life. It is therefore important to reduce the social stigma associated with mental illness, in order to eradicate the barriers that prevent individuals from receiving treatment. Eliminating social stigma: Contact