How to Not Discriminate Against People With Mental Illnesses
Many people living with mental health disorders face a form of discrimination know as ableism. Ableism is a form of discrimination and prejudice against individuals with disabilities, whether physical, cognitive, intellectual, or psychological. It involves the belief that disabled individuals are inferior in some way to non-disabled people and perpetuates stereotypes, negative attitudes, and harmful behaviors towards folks with disabilities. Ableism can show up in various ways, both overtly and subtly, and can be institutionalized in societal structures, policies, and practices. So to know how not to discriminate against people with mental illness, let’s talk about the ableist myths that lead to this discrimination.
Ableism often involves the stereotyping of disabled individuals as helpless, dependent, weak, or burdensome. These stereotypes can lead to negative attitudes and assumptions about their abilities, potential, and worth. Ableism can result in discriminatory practices, such as denying access to education, employment, healthcare, public services, or accommodations that would enable disabled individuals to participate fully in society. Ableism can lead to the exclusion and isolation of disabled individuals from social activities, friendships, and community involvement, contributing to the marginalization of people with disabilities.
Ableism can be reinforced through the design of physical environments and social structures that are not accessible to individuals with disabilities. This includes lack of wheelchair ramps, inaccessible transportation, lack of support in school, or inadequate accommodations for various disabilities. Ableism can also manifest through everyday microaggressions, which are more subtle and unintentional expressions of discrimination that may belittle, invalidate, or further marginalize disabled individuals.
Ableist beliefs about mental health are harmful attitudes and misconceptions that stigmatize and marginalize individuals with mental health conditions. These beliefs contribute to the discrimination and social exclusion of people experiencing mental health challenges. Some people view mental health struggles as a sign of weakness or lack of resilience, perpetuating the idea that individuals should be able to "tough it out" and overcome their mental health conditions on their own. Ableist beliefs may also attribute mental health conditions solely to personal failings or character flaws, disregarding the complex interplay of biological, environmental, and social factors that contribute to mental health challenges.
Ableism can lead to the categorization of individuals with mental health conditions as "abnormal" or "different" from the perceived societal norm, reinforcing feelings of alienation and shame. Some ableist beliefs associate mental illness with dangerousness or violence, creating fear and prejudice against individuals with mental health conditions. Ableism may lead to the belief that mental health challenges are merely temporary and can be easily overcome without proper understanding of the chronic and long-term nature of some mental health conditions. Ableist beliefs might dismiss or deny the legitimacy of mental health conditions as a matter of mindset or will power, leading to a lack of empathy and support for those experiencing mental health challenges.
Ableist perspectives may promote the notion that positive thinking, faith, or willpower alone can cure mental health conditions, disregarding the fact that mental illness is a real disease while minimizing the importance of professional support and evidence-based treatments. On the other hand, some ableist beliefs may view medication as the only solution for mental health issues, overlooking the value of holistic approaches to treatment. Ableism can also create a stigma around seeking help for mental health concerns, which discourages individuals from reaching out for support and treatment. Ableist beliefs may downplay the impact of societal discrimination and systemic barriers on mental health, failing to recognize how ableism can exacerbate mental health challenges.
Addressing ableist beliefs about mental health requires promoting mental health awareness, empathy, and education. Combating stigma involves challenging misconceptions, advocating for accessible mental health resources, and fostering a more compassionate and inclusive society. Supporting open discussions about mental health and promoting understanding can help reduce the stigma and create a supportive environment for those facing mental health challenges.
Some ways to combat ableism include:
-Raising Awareness: Promote education and awareness about disability rights and issues to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions.
-Advocacy: Advocate for disability rights and accessibility in all aspects of society, including employment, education, healthcare, and public services.
-Inclusive Language: Use respectful and inclusive language that emphasizes the personhood of people with disabilities rather than defining them solely by their disability. Do not use words like “spaz,” “lame,” “slow", or “retarded.”
-Accessibility: Ensure that physical and digital environments are accessible to all individuals, removing barriers that prevent full participation.
-Amplifying Disabled Voices: Listen to and amplify the voices of disabled individuals in discussions about their rights and experiences.
-Sensitivity and Empathy: Cultivate empathy and sensitivity towards disabled individuals, understanding that each person's experience with disability is unique.
Ableism is a harmful and pervasive form of discrimination that negatively impacts the lives of individuals with disabilities. Challenging ableism requires ongoing efforts to promote inclusivity, accessibility, and understanding, ultimately fostering a more equitable and compassionate society that values the diverse experiences and contributions of all its members.