Sad but true. And while I was dealing mostly with internalized stigma and how that prevented physicians from seeking treatment in a timely manner, my evidence came from the published reports and studies that clearly show stigma affecting treatment for patients with mental health concerns and/or substance use disorders. The primary problem is the treatment disparities for that patient population group. To any physician or medical student reading this that thinks they may have an issue: ignore the snarky comments you've heard from the ED nurses. Ignore the crazy person / drug seeking stories you've heard from family docs. It's ok to find help, and phycologists and psychiatrists will be confidential and understanding when you go. It's ok to get help, it's not a scarlet letter.