What is Mental Health Discrimination?
What is Mental health discrimination? This is one of the worst forms of discrimination that is not talked about. By definition, this is the discrimination and judgment of individuals who are living with a mental health condition(s). A shorter term that captures this definition would be “Mental Health Stigma”.
Here’s another definition
When an individual is treated differently or unequally due to the condition of their mental health condition
As shameful as it is to say, We deal with this so much in America, especially in a world post-COVID-19. This is an unfortunate reality for many people today. Yet, the real necessary conversations aren’t happening. meanwhile, different forms of discrimination are on the rise.
Types of Mental Health Discrimination
Not all forms of discrimination are visible. Mental health discrimination can be damaging. This type of discrimination can impact an individual’s physical, mental, and social well-being. Often, individuals living with mental health conditions face all kinds of abuse. They face alienation, isolation, and blame for their condition. Sometimes, even physical violence can happen. Prejudice can be detrimental. This only creates further distress and increases the likelihood of further mental issues. On an institutional level, this type of discrimination can be intrusive. This can include practices like preconditions of mental health disclosure to gain employment. Let’s also be real about the criminalization of powerlessness related to “mental health”. Mental health at its core runs deep. It is a broad topic with many levels and complexities to understand. Society as a whole does not have a real understanding of what mental health encompasses.
Mental Health on a professional/Institutional level
People with those mental health conditions could possibly face more disadvantages. When it comes to future endeavors for education or employment, the lines blur. Employers or institutions reserve the right to disbar individuals based on their diagnosis. Again, discrimination rears its ugly head in many ways. This type of discrimination can also take the form of verbal abuse. Better yet, “mockery” of someone living with a mental health condition is disheartening. Often times as people, we tend to make fun of or belittle what we do not understand. People with mental health conditions can face difficulty in the media. A negative portrayal or having a traumatic experience simplified can be damaging. Inaccurate representation, only further perpetuates the prejudice regularly dealt with.
Let’s talk about solutions
The correct steps must be taken to reduce mental health discrimination. It starts with creating an open dialogue and discussion. We must have real talks about how we view mental health and understand it on a societal level. Individuals must be willing to challenge the stereotypes and misbeliefs about mental illness. People must also be more understanding and tolerant. mental health conditions.
It is important to inform people about the various aspects of mental health. A life of balance can still be achieved. It is also important to give support to those living with a mental health condition. Raising awareness about the realities of mental health conditions is still needed. instigating legal changes is an endless job. Advocating for the rights of those who are discriminated against would be powerful.
Imagine the number of professional institutions that disregard or don’t accommodate certain conditions. At the end of the day, it is imperative that people with mental health conditions maintain their dignity. Their experiences should be respected by society. Not saying a “special treatment”. Common sense, patience, and understanding go a long way.
People can help by challenging messages of stigma. Educating themselves and those around them can do wonders. Please understand that those living with mental health conditions can lead meaningful lives. Support the fight for equal rights for everyone in our society.
