NAMI condemns all acts of stigma directed against persons with brain disorders, whether by intent, ignorance, or insensitivity. Epithets, nicknames, jokes, advertisements, and slurs that refer to persons with brain disorders in a stigmatizing way are cruel. NAMI considers acts of stigma to be discrimination.

NAMI believes, in accordance with current scientific evidence, that persons who are receiving appropriate treatment and services for a brain disorder are no more violent than the population at large. NAMI deplores the portrayal in literature, films, and television of persons with brain disorders as being prone to violence. These frequent depictions are hurtful stereotypes. The truth is that persons with brain disorders are more often the victims of violence.

NAMI especially deplores the exploitation of people with brain disorders by journalists, advertisers, advertising agencies, the entertainment industry, and others for commercial gain or other advantage.