Social justice, health equity, and mental health

Abstract

There is considerable evidence to indicate that stigma and discrimination against people with mental illnesses are widely prevalent across nations. Research also shows that individuals with mental illnesses are likely to die 15–20 years younger than those who do not have these illnesses. In addition, they are more likely to experience delays in help-seeking leading to poor outcomes and are more likely to experience physical illnesses. Stigma and discrimination appear to play a major role in depriving people with mental illnesses of their basic rights. Their economic, political, social, and human rights are often ignored. In this article, we describe the capability to be healthy and basic principles of social justice related to mental health. We discuss findings of discrimination often embedded in laws of countries around the world in the context of basic human rights. We believe that clinicians have a key role as advocates for their patients. Clinicians and policymakers need to work together to bring about social and health equity.

Measuring Positive Mental Health and Depression in Africa: A Variable-Based and Person-Centred Analysis of the Dual-Continua Model

“…An adoption of the dual-continua model and research and practise scope could instigate efforts and strategies to identify those who have low well-being and low pathology, but are below the threshold mark for psychopathology ( Magalhães and Calheiros, 2017 ; Appiah, 2022 ). Bhugra et al (2022) places the advocacy responsibility for the prevention of mental illness and its stigma, and the promotion of mental health on the shoulders of practitioners. In the end, “the importance of measuring mental health in the same way as mental illness cannot be overstated” ( Keyes, 2013 , p. 16).…”

Health outcomes in Deaf signing populations: A systematic review

“…These issues of inequalities in language development, educational attainment, employment, and income would have impact across this group’s lifetime relating to the likely disposable resources Deaf people have such as quality of life and opportunities. Prilleltensky et al [ 51 ] has argued that without opportunities to access rights and equality, a person would be unable to fulfil their well-being potential, and that “social justice can help manage social determinants of health in a more equitable manner” [ 52 , p.8]. Despite the legal rights to promote equality and combat discrimination in some countries (e.g.…”

The Goldwater Rule at 50 and its relevance in Europe: Examining the positions of National Psychiatric Association Members of the European Psychiatric Association

“…Consistent approaches influenced by the APA’s guidelines could prevent cross-continent inconsistencies and protect the privacy of individuals who become the focus of public interest in Europe. To that end, the Goldwater Rule has been praised as reducing the dissemination of stigmatizing notions of mental illness [ 16 ], which remains a predominant concern in contemporary psychiatric research and practice [ 42 ]. Equally, the APA’s policy can prevent inadvertent harm to individuals with or without mental health conditions [ 1 ].…”