MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES ACT • MHSA • PROP 63 |
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Stigma and Discrimination
...Until the society understands how the stigma and discriminations affects and fuels negative attitudes about mental health problems, then will stop the cycle, the use of labels, the myths and the reality behind the misconceptions. ....Despite the current health care ‘revolution,’ mental health disorders still remain shrouded in myth or mystery, perpetuating stigma and discrimination against people who have them.” ...Everyone knows it is wrong to discriminate against people because of their race, religion, culture, or appearance. However, they are less aware of how people with mental illnesses are discriminated against. Although such discrimination may not always be obvious, it exists and it hurts. People with mental health disorders continue to experience prejudice and discrimination in every area of their lives, from finding somewhere to live to getting a job. It is hardly surprising that many people with serious mental health disorders end up poor or homeless. Stigma and discrimination prevent them from getting the treatment and support they need to lead healthy, normal lives. ...TO REDUCE STIGMA, THE FOLLOWING IS REQUIRED: ..• Promote community education and participation.
Words Can Heal and Help End the Stigma and Discrimination that Surround Mental Health Disorders
Surgeon General David Satcher called on America to tear down the barriers of prejudice that block access to services and recovery. We can achieve this by putting into practice the following: • Empower yourself with the facts, and then use your knowledge to educate others and reach out to those around you with mental health disorders. The media also offers hope for eradicating stigma because of its power to educate and influence public opinion. ...Until the society understands how the stigma and discriminations affects and fuels negative attitudes about mental health problems, then will stop the cycle, the use of labels, the myths and the reality behind the misconceptions. |
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Transforming Mental Health Services Together |
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