Stereotypes are defined as a set of shared beliefs regarding characteristics specific to an individual and behaviors specific to a social group. They represent the image we form of a category of people: faced with the complexity of information in their environment, individuals use stereotypes as mental shortcuts to quickly form an impression of others. Stereotypes—including those directed at people with mental health issues—are often linked to prejudice (for example, the often negative assessment of someone we do not know) and can lead to discriminatory behavior. Simply starting by placing greater importance on the person rather than their social category helps combat stereotypes.