Final answer:
An example of an internal barrier to seeking help for mental health is stigma. This refers to the negative attitudes and beliefs associated with mental illness that can lead to fear, shame, and discrimination. Another internal barrier is a lack of awareness or knowledge about mental health.
Step-by-step explanation:
An example of an internal barrier to seeking help for mental health is stigma. Stigma refers to the negative attitudes and beliefs associated with mental illness that can lead to fear, shame, and discrimination. This can prevent individuals from seeking help due to concerns about being judged or treated differently.
For example, a study by Gary (2005) found that stigma was a significant barrier to mental health care among ethnic minorities. Stigma can be internalized, meaning that individuals may believe and internalize the negative stereotypes and prejudices associated with mental illness, leading them to feel ashamed or embarrassed about seeking help.
Another internal barrier could be a lack of awareness or knowledge about mental health. If individuals do not understand the signs and symptoms of mental health issues or are not aware of the available resources and support, they may be less likely to seek help.